The Solomon Islanders comprise diverse cultures, languages, and customs. 93 % are Melanesian, 4% Polynesian, and 1.5% Micronesian. In addition, small numbers of Europeans and Chinese are registered. About 120 vernacular languages are spoken.
Most people reside in small, widely dispersed settlements along the coasts.
The capital city of Honiara, situated on Guadalcanal, the largest island, has 54,600 inhabitants. The other principal towns are Gizo, Auki, and Kirakira.
Most Solomon Islanders are Christian, with the Anglican, Roman Catholic, South Seas Evangelical, and Seventh-day Adventist faiths predominating. About 5% of the population maintains traditional beliefs.
The chief characteristics of the traditional Melanesian social structure are:
Most Solomon Islanders maintain this traditional social structure and find their roots in village life.
It's hard to believe that until the 1930s these friendly, easy-going islanders were considered to be among the world's most violent and dangerous people. Head-hunting, cannibalism and skull worship were central elements of traditional culture, and sacred skull shrines remain as macabre and fascinating reminders of the old days.
Unfortunately, more recently the So
lomons developed a dangerous reputation following the period of ethnic conflict in 1999 and 2000. In the ensuing years Guadalcanal and - to a lesser extent – Malaita Province experienced a major breakdown in law and order. The deployment of a regional assistance mission quickly re-established law and order, and it's now perfectly safe to travel anywhere in the Solomons except for rural Guadalcanal…and even there you can get around if you have a guide or officer to lead the way.
Most people reside in small, widely dispersed settlements along the coasts.
The capital city of Honiara, situated on Guadalcanal, the largest island, has 54,600 inhabitants. The other principal towns are Gizo, Auki, and Kirakira.
Most Solomon Islanders are Christian, with the Anglican, Roman Catholic, South Seas Evangelical, and Seventh-day Adventist faiths predominating. About 5% of the population maintains traditional beliefs.
The chief characteristics of the traditional Melanesian social structure are:
- The practice of subsistence economy;
- The recognition of bonds of kinship, with important obligations extending beyond the immediate family group; local and clan loyalties far outweigh regional or national affiliations.
- Generally egalitarian relationships, emphasizing acquired rather than inherited status; and
- A strong attachment of the people to the land.
Most Solomon Islanders maintain this traditional social structure and find their roots in village life.
It's hard to believe that until the 1930s these friendly, easy-going islanders were considered to be among the world's most violent and dangerous people. Head-hunting, cannibalism and skull worship were central elements of traditional culture, and sacred skull shrines remain as macabre and fascinating reminders of the old days.
Unfortunately, more recently the So
lomons developed a dangerous reputation following the period of ethnic conflict in 1999 and 2000. In the ensuing years Guadalcanal and - to a lesser extent – Malaita Province experienced a major breakdown in law and order. The deployment of a regional assistance mission quickly re-established law and order, and it's now perfectly safe to travel anywhere in the Solomons except for rural Guadalcanal…and even there you can get around if you have a guide or officer to lead the way.
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