Facts about the faroes

Location

Northern Europe. Island group between the Norwegian Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, about one-half of the way from Iceland to Norway.

Geography

Archipelago of which 17 inhabited islands; strategically located along important sea lanes in northeastern Atlantic; precipitous terrain limits habitation to small coastal lowlands.

Climate

Mild winters, cool summers; usually overcast; foggy and windy.

Land area

1399 square kilometres; 545.3 square miles.

Population

48,350 (30.08.07).

Capital

Tórshavn; population approx.: 19,000 (2007).

Language

Faroese is the national language, rooted in Old Norse. Nordic languages are understood by most Faroese, and English is also widely spoken.

Religion

Evangelical Lutheran Church: 80% - Christian Brethren (Plymouth Brethren):10%.

Background

The population of the Faroe Islands is largely descended from Viking settlers who arrived in the 9th century. The islands have been connected politically to Denmark since the 14th century.

Government

Part of the Kingdom of Denmark; self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark since 1948.

Head of government 

Prime Minister Kaj Leo Johannesen (since January 2008).

Cabinet

Landsstyrið is appointed by the Prime Minister.

Parliament

Unicameral Faroese Parliament or Løgting.

Industries

Fishing, fish processing, shipbuilding, construction, handicrafts.

Labor force

29.960 people (per 02.01.07).

Labor force by occupation

Fishing, fish processing, and manufacturing 33%, construction and private services 33%, public services 34%.

Export

Total exports in EUR 519,5 mill. (05.09.07).

Import

Total imports in EUR 628,2 mill. (05.09.07).