Monarchy of Tuvalu facts for kids
Quick facts for kids King of Tuvalu |
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Coat of arms of Tuvalu
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| Incumbent | |
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| Charles III since 8 September 2022 |
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| Details | |
| Style | His Majesty |
| Heir apparent | William, Prince of Wales |
| First monarch | Elizabeth II |
| Formation | 1 October 1978 |
The monarchy of Tuvalu is a special way Tuvalu is governed. It means that a monarch (a king or queen) is the official head of state. This role is passed down through their family. Since September 8, 2022, King Charles III has been the King of Tuvalu. He represents the country's government and its history.
Even though King Charles III is also the monarch for 14 other independent countries in the Commonwealth of Nations, each country's monarchy is separate. This means he is officially called the King of Tuvalu when he acts for Tuvalu. He and other members of the royal family might do public duties for Tuvalu. However, only the King has an official role in Tuvalu's laws.
The King holds the main power, but most of it is used by elected officials. These include members of parliament, government ministers, and judges. The King's power to do things like fire a prime minister is very important. But it is only used in special, rare situations. This helps keep the government stable and prevents anyone from having too much power.
The Constitution of Tuvalu says the King is a symbol of Tuvalu's unity and identity. The monarchy helps make sure the government runs smoothly and fairly. Most of the King's duties are carried out by his representative in Tuvalu, the Governor-General of Tuvalu.
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How Tuvalu's Monarchy Began
Europeans first found the islands of Tuvalu in the 1500s. But they became well-known in the 1820s. The islands, then called the Ellice Islands, became a British protectorate in 1892. This meant they were protected and controlled by Britain. They were part of the British Western Pacific Territories until 1916. After that, they became part of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands Colony.
In the 1960s, people from the Gilbert Islands and the Ellice Islands had some disagreements. The Ellice Islanders wanted to separate. In 1974, they voted to become a separate area. The Ellice Islands were then renamed "Tuvalu" in 1975. Tuvalu became its own British territory with its own government.
Tuvalu became fully independent in 1978. It became a sovereign state and a constitutional monarchy within the Commonwealth. This meant Elizabeth II became the Queen of Tuvalu. Tuvalu's independence constitution said that Queen Elizabeth II was the head of state because the people of Tuvalu wanted her to be.
Princess Margaret visited Tuvalu in September 1978. She was there to represent the Queen at the independence celebrations. She got sick, so her private secretary, Lord Napier, took her place. On October 1, Tuvalu's Independence Day, Lord Napier gave the independence documents to the new Governor-General. He also read a speech from Princess Margaret.
The Tuvaluan Crown and Its Role
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Tuvalu is one of 15 independent countries called Commonwealth realms. These countries share the same monarch. But the monarch's role in Tuvalu is completely separate from their role in any other country. Even though they share the same person as monarch, each Commonwealth realm, including Tuvalu, is independent. The King's representative in Tuvalu is the governor-general.
Since Tuvalu became independent in 1978, the Crown (the monarchy) has been both shared and separate. The King's role as monarch of Tuvalu is unique to Tuvalu. It is not just a British role. It has become a "Tuvaluan" part of their government.
This separation is shown in different ways. For example, the King has a special Tuvaluan title. When he acts for Tuvalu, he uses Tuvaluan symbols. These include Tuvalu's national flag and special royal symbols. Also, only Tuvaluan government ministers can advise the King on matters related to Tuvalu.
In Tuvalu, the government is officially called the Crown in Right of Tuvalu.
The King's Title
In 1987, Tuvalu's Parliament passed a law called the Royal Style and Title Act. This law gave Queen Elizabeth II a special title to use for Tuvalu. Her official title became: Elizabeth the Second, by the Grace of God Queen of Tuvalu and of Her other Realms and Territories, Head of the Commonwealth.
Since King Charles III became monarch, his title is: Charles the Third, by the Grace of God King of Tuvalu and of His other Realms and Territories, Head of the Commonwealth.
This title shows that Tuvalu is an independent monarchy. It highlights the King's role as the specific sovereign of Tuvalu. It also shows that the Crown is shared across the Commonwealth. Usually, the King is called "King of Tuvalu" when he is in Tuvalu or doing duties for Tuvalu abroad.
Who Becomes King or Queen
The rules for who becomes King or Queen are based on "absolute primogeniture." This means the oldest child, regardless of gender, inherits the throne. These rules come from laws like the Succession to the Crown Act 2013, the Act of Settlement 1701, and the Bill of Rights 1689. These laws say that only natural, legitimate descendants of Sophia of Hanover can inherit the throne. They also state that the monarch cannot be a Roman Catholic. They must be in communion with the Church of England when they become monarch.
Even though these laws apply to Tuvalu, Tuvalu and the United Kingdom cannot change them alone. All the countries that share the monarch must agree to any changes. This is like a special agreement between these countries.
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When a monarch dies or steps down, their heir immediately becomes the new monarch. No special ceremony is needed for this to happen. After a monarch passes away, there is a period of mourning. Flags across Tuvalu are flown at half-mast to honor the late monarch. A special memorial service is usually held.
The King as a Symbol of Tuvalu
I, (name), do swear (or solemnly affirm) that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to the Sovereign of Tuvalu. (So help me God)
Section 51 of the Constitution of Tuvalu says that the head of state is a symbol of Tuvalu's unity and identity. Sections 52 and 53 of the Constitution explain what the head of state does.
Many government workers and new citizens in Tuvalu take an oath of loyalty to the King. This is a promise to be faithful to the monarch. In return, the King promises to govern the people of his realms fairly. He promises to follow their laws and customs, as he does in his Coronation Oath.
The King's Role in Government
Tuvalu's constitution sets up a parliamentary government under a constitutional monarchy. This means the King and governor-general have a legal role, but they are not involved in daily politics. The Crown is seen as a body where different parts share power. The King is at the center of this system. All government powers are officially held by the King. Tuvalu's government is formally called His Majesty's Government.
Most of the King's duties in Tuvalu are carried out by the governor-general. The King appoints the governor-general based on the advice of Tuvalu's prime minister.
Executive Power
Part V, section 62 of the Constitution of Tuvalu explains where the government's power comes from:
- (1) The main power of Tuvalu's government belongs to the King, and to the Governor-General as the King's representative.
- (2) This power is used according to section 53 (how the Head of State performs duties).
The prime minister leads the Cabinet of Tuvalu. The prime minister advises the King or governor-general on how to use their powers. This covers all government actions and foreign relations. The King's role is mostly symbolic. He represents the legal authority that all government bodies work under. The Cabinet decides how to use the King's special powers. These powers include declaring war and keeping peace. They also include calling and ending parliament sessions and calling elections.
However, these special powers belong to the Crown, not to the ministers. The constitution allows the governor-general to use these powers alone in special situations. For example, they can dismiss a prime minister, dissolve parliament, or remove a judge during a serious constitutional crisis. There are also a few duties only the King performs, like appointing the governor-general.
The Parliament of Tuvalu elects the prime minister. The governor-general calls a meeting of parliament to elect a new prime minister after each general election. They also do this if the prime minister's position becomes empty. The governor-general appoints a Cabinet based on the prime minister's choices. The King is kept informed by his representative about resignations and new appointments. He stays updated through regular messages from his Tuvaluan ministers. Other officials, like High Court judges, are also appointed by the Crown.
Foreign Relations
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The King's special powers also extend to foreign relations. The governor-general signs treaties, alliances, and international agreements. Parliament does not need to approve these. However, a treaty cannot change Tuvalu's local laws. An act of Parliament is needed for that. The governor-general, on behalf of the King, also approves Tuvaluan high commissioners and ambassadors. They also welcome diplomats from other countries.
Also, Tuvaluan passports are issued in the King's name. The first page of a Tuvaluan passport says:
"The Governor-General of Tuvalu hereby requests and requires in the name of His Majesty King Charles the Third all those whom it may concern to allow the holder of this passport to pass freely, without hindrance or delay, and in case of need to give the holder all lawful aid and protection. The holder of this passport has the right to enter and reside in Tuvalu."
Parliament's Role
The governor-general is responsible for calling the Parliament of Tuvalu to meet. They do this based on advice from the Cabinet. If parliament does not meet at least twice a year, or within three months after an election, the governor-general can call it back. This can happen if the speaker or most members ask for it. A new parliamentary session starts with a Speech from the Governor-General. This speech explains the government's plans for new laws.
The governor-general also ends parliament sessions. This happens after parliament votes for it. Parliament automatically ends four years after it first meets after a general election. The governor-general can end parliament earlier if parliament votes for it. They can also do it if the prime minister's job is empty and no one new has been elected quickly. After parliament ends, a general election follows. The governor-general usually officially calls for the election at Government House in Funafuti.
All government power belongs to the King. So, the King's official approval is needed for bills to become laws. Section 88 of the constitution says the governor-general must "promptly assent" to the bill. They cannot refuse to approve it.
Courts and Justice
All judges of the High Court of Tuvalu are appointed by the governor-general. The highest court for appeals in Tuvalu is the Judicial Committee of the King's Privy Council.
In Tuvalu, crimes are seen as offenses against the King. Lawsuits for serious crimes are brought in the King's name. For example, they are called Rex [or Regina] versus [Name] (rex means king, regina means queen in Latin). This means the King cannot be charged with crimes in his own courts.
The King, and by extension the governor-general, can also grant protection from being charged. They can use the royal prerogative of mercy to pardon crimes against the Crown. This can happen before, during, or after a trial. Section 82 of the constitution describes how they can use this power to grant pardons and reduce prison sentences.
Cultural Role
- The Queen's 90th birthday parade in Tuvalu, 2016.
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The King's Official Birthday is a public holiday in Tuvalu. It is usually celebrated on the second Saturday of June each year. Tuvaluans celebrate with church services, prayers, and singing God Save The King and Tuvalu mo te Atua. They also raise the flag, give public speeches, and have a parade. Since it's a public holiday, government offices, schools, and most businesses are closed.
Tuvaluans also used to celebrate the birthday of the former Prince of Wales (now King Charles III). This was called Heir to the Throne Day and was a public holiday in November.
Honors and Awards
The King is seen as the source of all honors and awards. As the Sovereign of Tuvalu, he gives out awards and honors in Tuvalu in his name. Most of these are given based on the advice of "His Majesty's Tuvalu Ministers."
The governor-general presents these awards on behalf of the King.
The Police Force
The patrol boats of the Tuvalu Police Force are called HMTSS (His Majesty's Tuvalu Surveillance Ship). A St. Edward's Crown appears on the police force's badges and rank symbols. This shows that the monarchy is the source of their authority.
Under Section 163(5) of the Constitution, the Commissioner of Police is appointed by the Head of State. This happens based on the Cabinet's advice, after talking with the Public Service Commission. The Police Act of Tuvalu says that every police officer must promise loyalty to the monarch of Tuvalu when they join. The current oath is:
"I, [name], do swear by Almighty God (or solemnly and sincerely affirm) that I will well and truly that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, His Heirs and Successors, and that I will faithfully serve His Majesty the King, His Heirs and Successors, during my service in the Tuvalu Police Force: that I will subject myself to all Acts, orders and regulations relating to the said Police now in force or which may from time to time be in force and will discharge all the duties of a police officer according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will."
Royal Visits
Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, was the first royal family member to visit the islands in 1959. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, visited in October 1970.
Princess Margaret came in September 1978 for the independence celebrations. However, she had to leave early because she was sick.
Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh visited Tuvalu from October 26 to 27, 1982. The royal couple were carried around in special ceremonial chairs. They also enjoyed traditional local dishes at a banquet. They placed the first stone for a future Parliament building. A sheet of special stamps was made for the royal visit.
In 2012, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited Tuvalu. This was to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. They visited many places. Dressed in colorful grass skirts, they also took part in traditional dancing.
Voting on the Monarchy
In February 1986, Tuvalu held a vote to ask its people if Tuvalu should stay a constitutional monarchy with the Queen as head of state, or become a republic. A republic would mean having a president instead of a monarch. Only one atoll (island group) voted for a republic. More than 90% of voters wanted to keep the monarchy.
In the early 2000s, there was a discussion about getting rid of the monarchy. Prime Minister Saufatu Sopoanga said in 2004 that he wanted to replace the Queen as Tuvalu's head of state. Other former prime ministers agreed with him. Sopoanga said they would first find out what the public thought. A vote was held in 2008. The monarchy was kept, with 1,260 votes for keeping it and 679 against (64.98%).
Public Opinion
A survey in 2023 found that 71% of people wanted to keep the monarchy. Only 26% preferred Tuvalu to become a republic.
List of Tuvaluan Monarchs
| Portrait | Regnal name (Birth–Death) |
Reign over Tuvalu | Full name | Consort | House | |
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| Start | End | |||||
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Elizabeth II (1926–2022) |
1 October 1978 | 8 September 2022 | Elizabeth Alexandra Mary | Philip Mountbatten | Windsor |
| Governors-general: Sir Fiatau Penitala Teo, Sir Tupua Leupena, Sir Toaripi Lauti, Sir Tomu Sione, Sir Tulaga Manuella, Sir Tomasi Puapua, Faimalaga Luka, Sir Filoimea Telito, Sir Iakoba Italeli, Sir Tofiga Vaevalu Falani Prime ministers: Toaripi Lauti, Tomasi Puapua, Bikenibeu Paeniu, Kamuta Latasi, Ionatana Ionatana, Faimalaga Luka, Koloa Talake, Saufatu Sopoanga, Maatia Toafa, Apisai Ielemia, Willy Telavi, Enele Sopoaga, Kausea Natano |
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Charles III (b. 1948) |
8 September 2022 | present | Charles Philip Arthur George | Queen Camilla | Windsor |
| Governors-general: Sir Tofiga Vaevalu Falani Prime ministers: Kausea Natano, Feleti Teo |
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See also
- Lists of office-holders
- List of prime ministers of Elizabeth II
- List of prime ministers of Charles III
- List of Commonwealth visits made by Elizabeth II
- Monarchies in Oceania
- List of monarchies
