Papua New Guinea forms the eastern part of the island of New Guinea and some nearby islands. It became independent from Britain in 1975. There is much political instability and corruption, a high crime rate and a lack of essential services, such as health care and education.
Country Facts
- Region: Pacific
- Capital: Port Moresby
- Population: 7.9 million
- Area: 462,840 km2
- Religions: Protestant 53.1%, Roman Catholic 25.4%, independent Christian 12.5%
- Languages: Tok Pisin, English and Hiri Motu (official), more than 800 indigenous languages
Other countries in this region
