Palau: An Independent Nation, Not Owned by Any Country

Palau (Belau) is a sovereign island republic in the western Pacific (Micronesia).

• Independence: October 1, 1994 (from US-administered UN Trust Territory).
• Status: UN member; Compact of Free Association with USA (defense, funding, postal).
• Government: Presidential republic; capital Ngerulmud (on Babeldaob).
• Population: ~18,000 (2024).
• Economy: Tourism (diving, Rock Islands), fishing licenses, aid.

No country owns Palau. It governs itself—though the US handles defense under the Compact.