Vanuatu/Society

Society in Vanuatu

An overview of key social indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.

Explore Social Domains

Demographics

Coming Soon
Population
320.4K(2023)
Population Growth
2.3%(2023)
Fertility Rate
3.60(2023)
Death Rate
5.1 per 1k(2023)
Net Migration
-43(2024)

Public Health

Coming Soon
Life Expectancy
71.5 years(2023)
Under-5 Mortality
16.8 per 1k(2023)
Maternal Mortality
100 per 100k(2023)
Health Expenditure
4.1%(2022)

Education & Human Capital

Coming Soon
Literacy Rate
89.1%(2021)
Primary Enrollment
79.8%(2015)
Secondary Enrollment
117.1%(2023)
Tertiary Enrollment
4.9(2004)
Education Expenditure
10.6%(2023)

Infrastructure & Connectivity

Coming Soon
Internet Users
45.7%(2023)
Access to Electricity
61.6%(2023)
Access to Basic Drinking Water
91.3%(2022)
Urban Population
83.2K(2023)
Rural Population
237.2K(2023)

Current Social Overview of Vanuatu

A summary based on key social and demographic indicators.

  • Vanuatu has an estimated population of 320K
    2023
    The nation is experiencing rapid demographic expansion with an annual growth rate of 2.3%
    2023
    , indicative of a dynamic and youthful population structure and potential for a significant demographic dividend. With a fertility rate of 3.6 births per woman
    2023
    , the population maintains momentum, necessitating strategic investments in social infrastructure. Net emigration is relatively minor, impacting the population by approximately 43 individuals annually (or -0.1 per 1,000 inhabitants)
    2024
    .
  • Regarding public health, Healthcare outcomes show foundational progress with a life expectancy of 71.5 years
    2023
    , yet significant disparities or developmental gaps may still exist. Concurrently, Healthcare delivery faces significant systemic challenges, as evidenced by elevated child mortality (under 5 years) (16.8 per 1,000 live births
    2023
    and maternal mortality (100 per 100,000 live births
    2023
    ) rates, suggesting areas for critical intervention and resource allocation. These outcomes are supported by limited healthcare spending, at 4.1% of GDP
    2022
    , which may constrain comprehensive health system improvements and the attainment of higher health outcomes.
  • Educational progress is reflected in a literacy rate of 89%
    2021
    , though continued efforts are needed to achieve universal literacy and enhance foundational skills. Complementing this, while primary education reaches 80% of children
    2015
    , secondary enrollment at 117%
    2023
    suggests significant attrition challenges that may hinder higher skill development and future economic potential. This educational framework is supported by robust public investment, with 10.6% of GDP dedicated to education spending
    2023
    , underscoring a strong commitment to human capital development.
  • In terms of infrastructure and connectivity, the primarily rural population distribution (74% rural population
    2023
    ) presents distinct challenges for universal infrastructure provision, service access, and economic modernization. Furthermore, critical infrastructure gaps are evident, with electricity access at 62%
    2023
    and internet penetration at 46%
    2023
    severely limiting economic potential, hindering social development, and impeding digital integration.

Key Development Insights

Population Dynamics

A youthful, rapidly growing population presents a "demographic dividend" opportunity if met with sufficient investment in jobs and services.

Public Health System

Public health outcomes are a core indicator of national development and quality of life. Access to healthcare is essential for sustainable growth.

Human Capital Formation

Educational attainment is a direct driver of economic innovation and global competitiveness. Investment in education is key to unlocking human potential.

Infrastructure & Connectivity

Expanding access to basic infrastructure, particularly electricity, remains a key bottleneck for broad-based development.

More About This Country

Neighbors & Regional Peers

Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.