Tuvalu - Media

In 1997, there were about 1,000 mainline telephones in use throughout the country. The government-owned Tuvalu Broadcasting Service, on Funafuti, transmits daily in Tuvaluan and also broadcasts news in English. In 2001, the only radio station in the country was owned by the government. There was also one government television station broadcasting about three hours per week. In 1997 there were 373 radio receivers in use per 1,000 population. Internet access is available through the management of the Office of the Prime Minster and the Department of Telecommunications.

There is no commercial press, but Tuvalu Echoes (2002 circulation, 250) is published biweekly by the government. Other local publications are produced by the churches or the government. The government is reported to respect freedom of speech and of the press.