Fiji

History

Main article: History of Fiji

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The first inhabitants of Fiji arrived from South East Asia long before contact with European explorers in the 17th century. It was not until the 19th century, however, that Europeans came to the islands to settle there permanently. The islands came under British control as a colony in 1874. It was granted independence in 1970. Democratic rule was interrupted by two military coups in 1987, caused by concern over a government perceived as dominated by the Indo-Fijian (Indian) community.

Related Topics:
South East Asia - European - 17th century - 19th century - British - 1874 - 1970 - Military coups - 1987 - Indo-Fijian (Indian)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

A 1990 constitution guaranteed ethnic Fijian control of Fiji, but led to heavy Indian emigration; the population loss resulted in economic difficulties, but ensured that Melanesians became the majority. Amendments enacted in 1997 made the constitution more equitable. Free and peaceful elections in 1999 resulted in a government led by an Indo-Fijian. A year later, this was deposed in a coup led by George Speight, a hardline Fijian nationalist. Democracy was restored towards the end of 2000, and Laisenia Qarase, who had led an interim government in the meantime, was elected Prime Minister. Fiji's membership of the Commonwealth of Nations was suspended due to the anti-democratic activities connected with the 2000 coup.

Related Topics:
1990 - Ethnic Fijian - 1997 - Constitution - 1999 - Coup - George Speight - 2000 - Laisenia Qarase - Prime Minister - Commonwealth of Nations

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

For a country of its size, Fiji has exceptionally capable armed forces, and has been a major contributor to UN peacekeeping missions in various parts of the world.

Related Topics:
Armed forces - UN peacekeeping missions

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~