Solomon Islands

The UK established a protectorate over the Solomon Islands in the 1890s. Some of the bitterest fighting of World War II occurred on this archipelago. Self-government was achieved in 1976 and independence two years later. Ethnic violence, government malfeasance, and endemic crime have undermined stability and civil society. In June 2003, then Prime Minister Sir Allen KEMAKEZA sought the assistance of Australia in reestablishing law and order; the following month, an Australian-led multinational force arrived to restore peace and disarm ethnic militias. The Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) has generally been effective in restoring law and order and rebuilding government institutions.

Languages & Population

Approximate Population: 566,842

Nationality (Noun): Solomon Islander(s)

Nationality (Adjective): Solomon Islander

Official Language(s): English

Major Languages Spoken: English

Country Facts

Country Name (short form): Solomon Island

Country Name (local short form): Solomon Island

Name of Capital: Honiara

UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC+11 (16 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

Countries Near by, and Bordering Solomon Islands: Vanuatu, Nauru, Papua New Guinea

Land Area: 27540 sq km

Water Area: 910 sq km

Comparative Area: slightly smaller than Maryland

Coastline: 5,313 km

National Holiday: Independence Day, 7 July (1978)

International Phone Code: 677

Currency Code: Solomon Islands dollar (SBD)

Internet Country Code: .sb

US Embassy Location: the US does not have an embassy in Solomon Islands (embassy closed July 1993); the ambassador to Pap

US Embassy Mailing Address: none