Maldives

The Maldives is made up of a chain of nearly 1,200 islands, most of them uninhabited, which lie off the Indian sub-continent and which are vulnerable to a rise in sea levels associated with global warming.

None of the islands measures more than 1.8 metres (six feet) above sea level.

There is a fear that as sea levels rise, island countries such as the Maldives, and some Pacific territories, will simply be swamped and disappear.For the moment the country is portrayed by travel companies as a tropical paradise with sandy beaches and coral reefs. The economy is highly-dependent on revenues from its tourism industry.

Scores of islands have been developed for the top end of the tourist market and they are favoured by scuba divers because of their abundant marine life.

Aside from the island capital Male, outsiders are only permitted onto inhabited islands for brief visits, thereby limiting their impact on traditional Muslim communities.

Many Maldivians live in poverty. However, the country has developed its infrastructure and industries, including the fisheries sector, and has boosted health care, education and literacy.

The Maldives was dealt a blow by the December 2004 Asian tsunami disaster. Homes and resorts were devastated by the waves, precipitating a major rebuilding programme.

-BBC News