French Polynesia Country Report

French Polynesia is an overseas French collective and region consisting of 130 islands spread across the South-Central Pacific Ocean. The five archipelagos of French Polynesia include the Society Islands, Tuamotu Archipelago, Gambier Islands, Marquesas Islands, and Tubuai Islands. French Polynesia is generally stable and largely dependent on tourism.

Crime rates are low and petty crime is rare. General strikes and protests do occur periodically and can be violent. Issues such as pension reform have triggered demonstrations in the past. Natural disasters such as cyclones, earthquakes, and tsunamis may occur year-round and cause disruptions to essential services.

French Polynesia is susceptible to periodic bouts of general strikes and protests, usually by labor unions against employment issues, such as pension reforms implemented by France. The archipelago has not experienced any terrorist attacks, and there are limited symbolic targets for transnational extremist groups. Crime rates in French Polynesia are low and petty crime, such as pick-pocketing, is generally minimal.

Road safety is limited by driving habits and random road conditions.

Overland travel in French Polynesia may be unsafe due to driving standards on the islands. Although most major roads are paved, smaller roads may not and could be in poorer condition.

Air travel does not face any particular risk.

There are no major safety concerns regarding international air travel into French Polynesia.

French Polynesia's power and telecommunications infrastructures are adequate.

Mobile network coverage is relatively good across the archipelago, with wireless services generally provided at guesthouses, hotels, and restaurants.

French Polynesia has a tropical maritime climate, with temperatures varying only slightly throughout the year. The country typically experiences a warm rainy season from November-April and a cooler dry season May-October. French Polynesia is located in an active seismic zone and, therefore, can be prone to earthquakes.

Various insect-borne diseases are present in French Polynesia, including chikungunya and dengue fever. Vaccines before travel are also required, specifically for yellow fever. Healthcare in French Polynesia is generally good on the major islands but is limited in remote or less populated islands. Tap water is generally considered safe to drink in Bora Bora and Tahiti unless otherwise directed.

French Polynesia is a French Collective with significant autonomy under the terms of the 2004 Organic Law, which redefined the former overseas territory as an overseas country within the French Republic. The head of state is the French president, who is represented by a High Commissioner which oversees defense, foreign relations, and justice. The President of French Polynesia is the head of government of a multi-party system and is assisted by a cabinet of ministers. In 1996, a new statute granted the archipelago "autonomous status" and expanded its powers to include control over its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), internal security, air, and sea transport links, as well as telecommunications and postal services.