Society of Fiji

society

KEY FACTS 2015

Population per sq km:  49

Life expectancy:  70 years

Net primary enrolment: 97% (2012)


Population: 892,000 (2015); 54 per cent of people live in urban areas; growth 0.6 per cent p.a. 1990–2015; birth rate 20 per 1,000 people (34 in 1970); life expectancy 70 years (60 in 1970).

Language: The official language is English, but Fijian, of which there are more than 300 dialects, is widely spoken. A single dialect, Bauan, is used in the media. Hindi is the main language of the Indian population, although it is now distinct from that spoken in mainland India. English, Fijian and Hindi are all taught in schools and most of the population is at least bilingual.

Religion: Christians 65 per cent (Methodists 35 per cent, Roman Catholics nine per cent, Assembly of God six per cent, Seventh Day Adventists four per cent), Hindus 28 per cent, Muslims six per cent, small number of Sikhs (2007 census).

Media: Daily English-language newspapers are Daily Post (founded 1989), Fiji Sun and Fiji Times (1869), and there are a number of Fijian and Hindi weeklies.

Radio is a major source of information for most people, particularly on the outer islands. The Fiji Broadcasting Corporation provides national Fijian and Hindi services and there are a number of private radio stations. Fiji TV provides a national free-to-air channel and a pay-TV channel.

Public holidays: New Year’s Day, Queen’s Official Birthday (Monday in June), Fiji Day (Monday around 10 October), Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Religious and other festivals whose dates vary from year to year include Prophet’s Birthday, Good Friday, Easter Monday and Diwali (October/November)