The islands that make up Mauritius lie in the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar. The main island, from which the country takes its name, is of volcanic origin and surrounded by coral reefs. Along with Rodrigues to the east, the country includes the Agalega Islands and the Cargados Carajos Shoals (500 km – 300 miles – to the north). Mauritius has enjoyed considerable economic success following recent industrial diversification and the expansion of tourism.

Mauritius is one of the world's most densely populated countries. The majority of the population descend from indentured Indian laborers brought over in the 19th century. Creoles make up 27% of the population, while 3% are of Chinese origin. Clashes between Hindus, Muslims, and Creoles no longer occur, although Creoles complain of discrimination.

Strengths

Strong economic growth. Sugar industry: 30% of export earnings. Export Processing Zone (EPZ), especially for clothing manufacture. Tourism. Highly educated workforce. Ongoing development as offshore financial center. Ranked as the most competitive economy in Africa by the World Economic Forum in 1999.

Weaknesses

Vulnerability to droughts and fluctuating world sugar price. 75% of food requirements imported. Few crops other than sugar can be grown. Lack of strategic resources. Remoteness.

Mauritius became a republic in 1992. Navin Ramgoolam of the PTr became prime minister in 1995, promoting regional integration and economic liberalization to attract investment. However, corruption scandals led to early elections in 2000. The PTr was defeated and Sir Anerood Jugnauth, Ramgoolam's predecessor, now heads a new coalition between his MSM and the former opposition MMM.

Mauritius hosted a francophone nations summit in 1995, and the first OAU human rights conference in 1999. Links with South Africa and India are important. Disputes persist over UK-administered Diego Garcia and French-ruled Tromelin.

Mauritius has no standing defense forces. There is, however, a 1100-strong special police mobile unit to ensure internal security. There is also a coastguard numbering 500.

Mauritius has to import oil, so the government has invested heavily in alternative indigenous energy schemes, including HEP generation, and power plants fueled by bagasse (a by-product of the sugar industry). Industrialization and agricultural diversification make up for limited natural resources.

Rapid industrialization as well as unchecked hotel building have caused environmental problems. Coral reefs are under threat from both coral sand mining and the discharging of untreated sewage into the sea.

Roads are extensive, but often congested. Plans exist for a monorail link between Port Louis and Curepipe.

Free health care is universally available. There are 14 state hospitals and six private clinics.

Educational provision is good, and 91% of Mauritians under 30 are literate. The University of Mauritius has about 2000 students.

Crime rates on the main island are fairly low. There has been a small increase in thefts and drug smuggling. Outlying islands are virtually crime-free.

French-descended hotel and plantation owners form the country's wealthiest social group. Government employees are well paid.

Tourism expanded rapidly in the 1990s. Spectacular beaches, water sports, and big game fishing are major attractions. Almost 30% of visitors each year come from France.

Mauritius was colonized and ruled by the Dutch in the 17th century, the French (1710–1810), and the British.

• 1959 First full elections.
• 1968 Independence. Riots between Creoles and Muslims.
• 1982–1995 Sir Anerood Jugnauth prime minister; forms MSM.
• 1992 Becomes a republic.
• 1995 Elections won by PTr–MMM.
• 2000 Return of Jugnauth.