Wallis and Futuna: Continuing Population Decline, but at a Slower Rate

In 2018, Wallis and Futuna had a population of nearly 11,600, 5.2% less than in 2013. However, compared to the previous ten years, the decline seen over that period was significantly lower. Recent population trends differ widely on the two islands, which lie 230 kilometres apart, with Wallis seeing a decline of 2.9% between 2013 and 2018, compared to 10.7% for Futuna. More people are leaving the country than settling there, a trend particularly evident among young people. The average number of people per household fell below 4 for the first time. Family forms are changing and households with several family nuclei are becoming increasingly rare. The overall level of education is on the rise, but the activity rate is falling and unemployment is rising. Homes are becoming increasingly well-equipped.