| official_name = Territory of the Mava Islands<br />{{nobold|''Territorio de las Islas Mava'' (Almagrian)}}<br>{{nobold|''Maava Tlaanigat Chuumuk'' (Mavean)}}
| settlement_type = Unincorporated territorial area of [[Atitlan]]
| settlement_type = Unincorporated territorial area
| national_representation1 = represented by Atlalilco senators
| legislature = [[Mava Council]]
| national_representation_type2 = Chamber of Deputies
| area_km2 = 1,734
| national_representation2 = included in the District of Acalan
| area_rank = not ranked
| area_km2 = 1734
| area_sq_mi = 18.1
| area_sq_mi = 670
| elevation_max_m = 780
| percent_water = 3
| percent_water = 0
| elevation_max_m = 1345
| population_estimate = 2,713
| elevation_max_ft = 4413
| population_estimate_year = 2021
| population_census = 2,102
| population_estimate_rank = last
| population_census_rank = not ranked
| population_density_km2 = 1
| population_census_year = 2021
| population_density_sq_mi = 2.59
| population_density_km2 = 1.21
| population_density_sq_mi = 3.14
| population_density_rank = not ranked
| population_density_rank = not ranked
| GDP_PPP = $2.162 million
| GDP_PPP_rank =
| GDP_PPP_rank =
| GDP_PPP_per_capita =
| GDP_PPP_year = 2023
| GDP_PPP_per_capita = $1,070
| GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank =
| GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank =
| GDP_nominal = $5.046 million
| GDP_nominal =
| GDP_nominal_year = 2005
| GDP_nominal_per_capita = $1,860
| Gini = <!-- number only -->
| Gini_year =
| Gini_change = <!-- increase/decrease/steady -->
| Gini_ref =
| Gini_rank =
| HDI = <!-- number only -->
| HDI_year =
| HDI_year =
| HDI_change = <!-- increase/decrease/steady -->
| HDI_change = <!--increase/decrease/steady-->
| HDI_ref =
| HDI = <!--number only-->
| HDI_rank =
| currency = Atitlanese peso
| currency = Atitlanese peso
| currency_code = ATP
| currency_code = ATP
| timezone =
| timezone = UTC-9
| utc_offset = -09:00
| utc_offset =
| date_format = dd/mm/yyyy
| drives_on = Right
| drives_on = right
| calling_code = +52
| calling_code = +910
| postal_code_type =
| postal_code_type = Atitlanese postcode
| postal_code =
| postal_code = 6000XXX
| iso_code = MV
| iso_code = MV
| cctld = .mv
| cctld = .mv
| footnotes =
}}
|website=https://www.maava.mv/}}
'''Mava''' ([[Mavean language|Mavean]]: ''Maava''; {{wp|Spanish language|Almagrian}}: ''Mava''), alternatively and semi-officially known as the '''Mava Islands''' (Mavean: ''Maava Tokukmuuliku''; Almagrian: ''Islas Mavanas'') is an archipelago in the Sarosan Ocean. Composed principally of three main islands, of which only the largest is ocupied, the entire territory consists of around 1,700 sq km of territory in the western islands of [[Triania]]. Formally an unincorporated territorial area of [[Atitlan]], Mava has a significant degree of internal self-governance, with Atitlan responsible for defence, foreign affairs, and supplies of important goods and services. The capital and only major settlement is Paas on the island of Mava.
Settlers from continental Triania first arrived on the islands in the 9th century. Colonial contact with the islands occured in the 1820s, with the islands coming under Atitlanese rule in 1836 after a number of expeditions earlier in the decade. The islands served primarily as a naval station, giving Atitlan a greater presence in the Sarosan Ocean and a place in Triania, with little direct contact between Atitlan and Mavean peoples. Beginning in the 1910s, the process of establishing a civil government began, with a number of Catholic schools established to spread the faith and the Almagrian language. The declining power of the Atitlanese empire, culminating in its dissolution in 1946.
'''Maava''' (/mɑːvə/; Mavean: ''Maava''), officially the '''Territory of the Mava Islands''' is an [[Atitlan|Atitlanese]] dependent territory in the [[Sarosan Ocean]], comprising a group of three islands. It has an area of 1,734 square kilometres (670 sq mi), the largest of which, Mava Island, gives its name to the territory.
Beginning in the 1950s following the Atitlanese Civil War, the governing authorities on the island have increasingly devolved political power to native Maveans. In 1972, the island was formally declared an autonomous territory with its own independent organs of self-government. In 2009, a constitution was finally given to the islands, formally establishing the territory as an unincorporated territorial area and defining the relationship between Maveans and Atitlan proper. The population, which is concentrated mainly on the northern coast of Mava Island, remains under-developed, with limited access to basic services. With an estimated population of 2,713 and a per capita income of $1,860, it is one of the least populated and poorest territories in the world.
The territory had a population of 2,102 residents as of 2021, half of which are native Mavean. Before the twentieth century, there were few non-indigenous people living in the islands; the opening of mines has encouraged an influx of different people of different ethnicities since the 1940s. Almost all live in settlements along the northern coast of Mava Island, the largest of which is Paas. The official languages are Mavean and Almagrian, with the latter the language of government.
==Etymology==
The first settlers arrived on the islands in the 9th century from continental [[Triania]]. Colonial contact first occurred in the 1820s and Atitlan claimed sovereignty over the islands in 1828. Beginning in the early 20th century, mining operations led to a large influx of settlers from Atitlan and other countries. In 1979, a referendum on self-government narrowly failed; in a second referendum in 1999, self-government was approved. Since 2003, Mava has been an unincorporated territorial area, with federal powers devolved to a local island administration.
==History==
== History ==
===Early outside interactions===
There have been several attempts to introduce home rule to the islands. The first attempt, in 1979, failed when a narrow majority voted against proposals in a referendum. In 1981, proposals to extend the powers of the island council failed, with the eventual devolution of powers in 1989 largely limited to culture and language.
===The Eguilondo Kingdom===
In July 1867, Ibarmentudiak adventurer and convicted fraudster Otaño Eguilondo arrived in Mava, after having read a number of books on the Antarctic. He had been inspired by stories of travellers creating new societies in newly-discovered lands, and mistakenly believed that the population of Mava was little more than a few hundred. He landed at the modern settlement of Kaá'i in late July and immediately made contact with the local people. Initially surprised at the larger population than previously believed, he quickly ingratiated himself into the local community, using his talent for deceit to establish some influence. He claimed that he was a member of the deposed Aguirregoitiafelipenas dynasty, taking advantage of the Mavean custom of affording reverence to persons of a higher class, irrespective of their background. By 1870, he had fully adopted a Mavean identity, taking the name Kasaak Tanaana and marrying a local woman, who died shortly after the birth of his first child.
In 1875, he was elected leader of Mava, the largest and most populous of the Mavean islands. His election was bolstered by repeated claims of royal ancestry as well as claims of a planned Ibarmentudiak invasion, which he pledged he could avert. In 1878, he proclaimed himself King of Mava on grounds of being the class equal of any potential coloniser. He took the name Káakaia II, claiming "spiritual decent" from the semi-mythical chief Kaakaia, who is believed to have ruled in the seventeenth century, and issued a number of decrees establishing a new nobility and political system based on his homeland. Shortly after his accession, he married Naakala Kingup, the daughter of the previous ruler, thus further cementing his claim to leadership.
In 1999, a second referendum on home rule passed. The 2003 Law on the Governance of the Mava Islands provided for devolution of powers to a new Mava Islands Council. The position of Governor was abolished and executive power shared by a federally-appointed Administrator and a locally-elected Mayor.
The Atitlanese authorities were alerted to his presence and promptly deported him, forcing him to write an official letter renouncing his claimed title and admitting to the falsehoods he had spread. Until the 1980s, there remained a substantial number of people who recognised Eguilondo and his descendants as legitimate rulers of the island. In 1987, papers were released in Ibarmentudia confirming his stories to be fabrications, undermining his reputation.
In recent times, the economy of the island has began to diversify, although it remains heavily dependent on Atitlan. Mining continues to entice business and entrepreneurs, but recent years have seen population numbers stabilise as more visitors settle permanently.
===Self-government and modern history===
==Geography==
As the Atitlanese Empire entered into sustained decline, independence was explored for most colonies. Mava, because of its small population and relative underdevelopment was never seriously considered for this. However, there were discussions about providing a measure of self-government, but these were undermined by a lack of political support and continued economic stagnation.
The Mava Islands consist of three islands (Mava, Arrone, and Degach) and a number of smaller rocks and islets, with a total area of 1,734km2 (670 sq mi). The largest is Mava, which is approximately 77km long and 18km wide. The other two islands are significantly smaller: Arrone is around 11km long and 4km wide and Degack 5km and 3km wide.
Beginning in the 1910s, realising that Mava would likely remain under Atitlanese sovereignty for the foreseable future, the Atitlanese government promoted a policy of Catholicisation and Atitlanisation. Catholic missionaries set up a number of schools instilling Catholic faith and promoting the Almagrian language. Although attempts to spread the faith were successful, partly because of its deliberate comparisons to native religions, the teaching of Almagrian was resented by the indigenous population. In the 1930s, this policy was silently dropped, although it wasn't until the 1960s that the Atitlanese government formally renounced it.
Approximately 30 percent of the islands is covered in Magellanic subpolar forests, mostly in the south. The forests are home to a variety of flora. The southern beech (Nothofagus) is a common tree across the three islands. Because of the mostly untouched nature of many of these forests, a variety of animals have successfully established habitats. Amongst Mava's fauna include the Magellanic woodpecker, the Trianian sierra-finch, and the Trianian condor.
Following the Atitlanese Civil War, a renewed interest in Mavean self-government resulted in the creation of an advisory Mava Council in 1956. This body had no political power and its members were unpaid. In 1964, the Council were given some limited powers over culture and education, and from 1967 its members were paid. A final step was the election of the body, with the first being held in 1970. Finally, in 1972, the islands were given autonomy under the Mava Statute, with the Mava Council given formal legislative powers in a wider range of policy areas.
The islands of Mava, Arrone, and Degach, and some other smaller roks and islets, have a total area of 1,734 km2 (670 sq mi). Mava is the largest island, being approximately 77km long and 18km wide; Arrone is approximately 11km long and 4km wide, and Degack is approximately 15km long and 3km wide.
In the 1960s and 1970s, Mava enjoyed continued social and economic development, with per capita income increasing by around 4 percent year on year. Through an increase in revenue from fishing and mining, the government was able to expand public services to the point that Maveans became amongst the richest in the world. However, the decline in revenue from the late 1970s resulted in a significant drop in living standards, with cuts in government services resulting in a rise in poverty, illness, and crime.
=== Climate ===
Each island has a maritime climate sitting in the transition region between the tundra (Köppen classifications ET) and subarctic zones (Cfc). The climate is characterised by a minimal temperature range across days and seasons. There is no marked wet and dry season, with the climate influenced by the cool ocean currents and southerly winds.
Beginning in 1987, the discovery of polymetallic nodules in Mavean territorial waters provided for a sudden economic boost. The mining of nickel and copper drew in much-needed revenue, enabling the government to invest in social programs and begin the process of diversifying the economy, although this has only seen minimal success.
The twenty-first century has seen a modest level of social and economic development, with a steady growth in per capita income and a moderate expansion in individual rights as traditional values receed. In 2002, new divorce laws removed the need for a special Act of the Assembly terminating a marriage, with a limited liberalisation in abortion laws following in 2009.
In 2009, the Mava Constitution entered into force, establishing the islands under their current political regime.
==Geography==
[[File:Mava Köppen.png|thumb|right|370px|Köppen climate types in Mava]]
The country comprises two main islands, Great Mava and Little Mava, which are separated by the Mava Strait, and the smaller Taak. Great Mava is the largest of the island (1386 km<sup>2</sup>), followed by Little Mava (305 km<sup>2</sup>) and Taak (44 km<sup>2</sup>). Together, these islands and the surrounding rocks and islets make up the Mava Islands, for which the country is named. The two larger islands are characterised by their long east-to-west coastlines, with Mava being approximately 77 km long and 18 km wide. Little Mava is 11 km long and 4 km wide. The smallest of the main islands, Taak, is approximately 15 km long and 3 km wide.
Approximately 30 percent of Mava is covered in Magellanic subpolar forests, mostly in the south. The forests are home to a variety of flora. The southern beech (Nothofagus) is a common tree across the Mava islands. Because of the mostly untouched nature of many of these forests, a variety of animals have successfully established habitats. Amongst Mava's fauna include the southern river otter, the Magellanic woodpecker, the Trianian sierra-finch, and the Trianian condor.
===Climate===
Mava has a maritime climate, sitting in the transition region between the tundra (Köppen classifications ET) and subarctic zones (Cfc). The climate is characterised my a minimal temperature range across days and seasons. There is no marked wet and dry season, with the climate influenced by the cool ocean currents and southerly winds.
The average maximum temperature in January is around 12 °C (55 °F), whilst the July maximum average temperature drops to around 2 °C (35 °F). Average rainfall ranges from around 280-300mm in lowland areas to upwards of 1,500 mm in mountain terrain. Average rainfall is 890 mm. The weather is also characterised by humidity and high winds, the latter inspiring the name of the "Windy Islands". In wintertime, gales are particularly common. Despite the cold climate, snow is not common at any time of year, although it can appear in all months.
The average maximum temperature in January is around 12 °C (55 °F), whilst the July maximum average temperature drops to around 2 °C (35 °F). Average rainfall ranges from around 280-300mm in lowland areas to upwards of 1,500 mm in mountain terrain. Average rainfall is 890 mm. The weather is also characterised by humidity and high winds, the latter inspiring the name of the "Windy Islands". In wintertime, gales are particularly common. Despite the cold climate, snow is not common at any time of year, although it can appear in all months.
{{Weather box
{{Weather box
| location = Mava
| location = Mava
Line 240:
Line 207:
| Dec sun = 182.5
| Dec sun = 182.5
| year sun = 1601
| year sun = 1601
| source 1 = Government of Mava
| source 1 = Oficina Federal de Meteorología y Atmósfera
}}
}}
==Government and politics==
==Government==
{{main|Politics of Mava}}
Mava is a self-governing autonomous territorial area of Atitlan, administered by the federal Ministry of Land and Urban Development.
Mava is a self-governing territory. Under its 2009 Constitution, the islands are classified as an "unincorporated territorial area of the jurisdiction of the Federal Government of the Democratic Republic of Atitlan" with full internal self-governance. Atitlan remains formally responsible for foreign affairs, defence, and good government. Under this system, Mava is not a part of Atitlan, being classified in international law as a "territory for which the Democratic Republic of Atitlan is responsible." Maveans are also not Atitlan citizens, classified instead as Atitlanese nationals. They possess Atitlanese passports, albeit with certain limitations on their use, but may not live and work unrestricted in Atitlan proper.
[[File:Debating chamber of Mava Council.png|thumb|left|250px|The debating chamber of Mava Council]]
The President of Atitlan is designated as Mava's head of state, with executive authority exercised in his/her name by an appointed non-resident Governor. A local government deals with matters provided for in the constitution, overseen by a resident Administrator appointed as a deputy governor. The Administrator (or Governor when in residence) acts on the advice of the Executive Council for Mava, an advisory body composed of members of the cabinet, the Chairman of the Council, and a number of other public officials.
The Mava Council (Mavean: ''Maava Taapiit'') is the territory's unicameral legislature, consisting of ten members. Five members are elected every four years via the block vote system in one single at-large constituency. All politicians in Mava are independent and no parties exist nor have ever existed. Members of the Mava Council are required to give up all non-essential business interests and are paid for their council work as a full-time occupation.
The islands' judicial system operates on the basis of civil law, derived from Atitlan. The constitution provides for certain fundamental laws that bind the islands' government. The Supreme Court of Mava is the highest court, although Maveans may appeal to the Federal Supreme Court of Atitlan in matters where it may legislate. The Advocate General for Mava is the chief legal advisor to the Mavean government. Law enforcement is the responsibility of the Mava Police.
===Military===
Mava has no standing army, with its defence the responsibility of Atitlan. An Atitlanese military garrison is stationed on the islands, with a main base near Paas and another on the island of Makii, the second largest in the archipelago. The Commander of Atitlanese Forces in Mava may sit as a speaking, non-voting member of the Council. The Atitlanese Federal Coast Guard maintains a small station in Mava, with a rotating staff.
===Administrative divisions===
The island of Great Mava is the only permanently inhabited island. Paas, the territory's capital, is the only major urban area where the vast majority of the 2,700 people live. Consequently, there are only two formal administrative divisions: Inner (''Itiqip'') and Outer (''Mtakip''). Inner consists of Pass and the immediate rural areas surrounding it. Mtakip consists of the remainder of Mava Island and the other islands of the archipelago. Because of the small and concentrated population, there is no provision for local government.
==Economy==
The Mavean economy is described as "small, unmixed, and vulnerable," with a high dependence on fishing. Cod and salmon are important trading commodities and is the main employment for islanders and the single largest source of income. Because of this dependence, the economy is considered particularly vulnerable to changes in climate as well as competition from other nations, resulting in a comparatively per capita GDP of 9,120. The largest single employer is ''Ikaamaayakii Siagakakak'' (National Fishing Company), which is a state-owned industry and employs between 25 and 35 percent of the country's working population.
Mining also constitutes an important part of the economy. Polymetallic nodules are present in Mava's territorial waters, with the mining of nickel, copper, and molybdenum providing an important boost to the economy from the 1980s. Recent attempts have been made to phase out mining as a source of national income and to create a maritime reserve. The Mavean government committed to pursuing a path towards reducing its dependency on mining, although little progress has been made.
Other important industries include finance and business (10.7%), housing (8.1%), and hospitality (5.3%).
===Tourism===
Tourism in Mava was undeveloped until relatively recently. Mava has become an increasingly popular tourist attraction for wildlife watching, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions. There are a number of rivers running across the islands that offer opportunities for canoeing and kayaking, prompting the growth of a new service indutry. Hiking and camping is also a popular pursuit. In 2019, the Mava Tourist Board released a campaign called "roughing it", which encouraged adventurers to visit Mava.
Despite its growth in recent years, tourism in Mava remains comparatively low. In 2020 the government reported that tourism numbers for the period 2018-2019 stood at approximately 9,000, an increase from around 2,000 a decade earlier. Despite its recent emphasis on tourism as a source of national income, the government's annual economic report revealed that tourism accounts for only around 1.9 percent of the national economy.
The majority of tourists arrive by cruise ship, docking in Paas Harbour.
===Transport===
[[File:Nuuk airport.jpg|Kuraava Tanigak International Airport|thumb|right|250px|Kuraava Tanigak International Airport]]
There are two airports that provide air transport between Mava and other nations: The Kuraava Tanigak International Airport and the Paas International Airport, both located in the capital city Paas. The two airports cater to international flights, the latter focussing on destinations in mainland Triania. There is also bat traffic that links Mava with continental Triania. Roads are largely concentrated in the north of Mava Island, where the majority of settlements are based and where the land is generally flatter. Roads generally link urban areas, with few country roads due to the lack of countryside activities and hostile climate. The island of Tokuksiagak has one main road that links the town of Aripmek to the harbour.
Beginning in the 1950s, a number of roads have been constructed in the south of Mava Island, with the Mava Ring Road following the coastline along the north, east, and south of the island.
The Pekinerasartok Harbour is the main harbour, providing sea access for civil and government vessels. The Harbour is an important import/export hub, and also links Mava with the Outer Islands. The habour is overseen by the Pekinerasartok Harbour Authority, which enforces law through a specialist Pekinerasartok Harbour Police Force. There are also ports in Pmaak and Miilep.
===Energy===
Beginning in the 21st century, the government has sought to replace the use of fossil fuels with renewable energy sources. The primary focus is on windpower, taking advantage of the natural climate. In 2013, five 330 kW turbines were installed on the outskirts of Paas. In 2018, three offshore turbines were installed. As of 2023, there is limited capacity to store surplus wind energy, with an underdeveloped battery storage system.
==Demographics==
Mava has a population of 73,129 (2020 estimate), up from 69,353 according to the 2017 census. The vast majority are ethnic Mavean or part-ethnic Mavean. Almost 95 percent of residents are indigenous Maveans, with another 3 percent being mixed-Mavean (i.e., being of part-Mavean background). Under laws dating back to the 1930s that still remain in force, a person may claim to be an ethnic Mavean if at least five pairs of their eight great-grandparents are Mavean.
{{Pie chart
| caption = Ethnic groups (2016)
| other =
| label1 = Mavean
| value1 = 94.3
| color1 = blue
| label2 = Part-Mavean
| value2 = 3.1
| color2 = lightblue
| label3 = Atitlanese/Visible minority
| value3 = 2.1
| color3 = yellow
| label4 = Other
| value4 = 0.5
| color4 = black
}}
The majority of mixed-race Maveans claim some descent from the Atitlanese population resident on the island during colonial rule, although a small number claim ancestry from other Trianian people.
The economic crisis affecting Mava from the late 1960s until the late 1980s significantly affected Mava's population. A significant number emigrated to Atitlan, with the general population declining by approximately 8 percent, exasperating the economic problems through a long-term brain drain and a shrinking of the working population. During this time, the population also become more centralised in and around Paas, which suffered increased population density, stretched services, and underprepared infrastructure. It wasn't until the 1990s that the population returned to steady growth and a successful effort was made to encourage migration out of Paas.
===Languages===
The most spoken language spoken in Mavean, a Trianian language considered to be vulnerable due to a speaking population of only around 25,000 people. Almagrian is a co-official language, but retains only formal recognition and is limited to a small Atitlanese community. Anglish is also widespread and is taught alongside Almagrian as part of foreign languages lessons in schools.
===Religion===
{{bar box
| title=Mava religiosity
| titlebar=#ddd
| left1='''Religion'''
| right1='''Percentage'''
| float=right
| bars=
{{bar percent|Christianity|blue|92}}
{{bar percent|Indigenous beliefs|pink|5}}
{{bar percent|Others|gray|2}}
{{bar percent|None|red|1}}
}}
The predominant religion in Mava is Christianity, with the vast majority of practitioners (82 percent) being Roman Catholic. Roman Catholicism was introduced by Atitlanese colonists in the nineteenth century, and promoted amongst the indigenous population by missionaries. A small number of Protestant groups also exist on the islands, believed to have emerged out of Protestant émigrés escaping persecution. The majority of Protestants - mostly belonging to a uniting church - live in Paas, where the only Protestant churches are located. A small number of other Protestant denominations and Christian groups are also present on the islands, although they exist in small numbers and, in some cases, overlap with Catholic and major Protestant theologies.
===Education===
Education is free and compulsory for all people between the ages of 6 and 16. It consists of five years of primary education, three years of lower secondary education, and two years of higher secondary education. It is publicly funded through a mixture of government funds and Atitlanese subsidies and is free of charge to students.
There is no provision for further or higher education on the islands. Students seeking post-16 studies have to travel abroad, with Atitlan and Zyang the most common destinations.
Culturally, Maveans hold education and scholarship in high esteem, with a number of prominent Mavean academics and researchers considered important figures. The National Library of Mava, in Paas, serves as a repository for all doctoral and master's dissertations written by Maveans in any country, as well as scholarly publications by or about Maveans. This is publicly available free of charge.
==Culture==
The legal system is under the authority of the federal government. An administrator is appointed by the minister to represent the federal government locally. The territory is within the jurisdiction of the High Court of Atlalilico (‘’Tribunal Superior de Atlalilico’’’, TSA). A local magistrates’ court sits in Paas, which is part of the TSA’s magistracy.
===Storytelling and literature===
Storytelling forms an important part of Mavean culture, with the passing of tales from one generation to the next a common way of establishing strong links between elders and youth. This form of storytelling, called ''Okiigoat Kahaatu'' (lit. "Warn Telling") originated in the warnings given to adolescents about the threats they may face, but evolved into a broader type of group activity. Different orators tell different stories, but a number of common themes run through most: a young person entering into the adult world, an individual/animal/spirit trying to lead them astray, and the realisation that they were being led astray.
Several of these stories have been recorded and compiled into published works. Some of these have become internationally known, including ''Koeaatowurah'', and have brought Mavean culture to foreign audiences.
Under the 2003 Law on the Governance of the Mava Islands (‘’Almagrian: Ley de gobernanza de las islas Mava’’; LGIM), Atlalilico laws apply to Mava, although their application is at the discretion of the federal government. A unicameral Mava Islands Council, with eleven seats, enacts laws for the island and provides local government services. Whilst the Administrator is the formal head of government, a directly-elected mayor fulfils many executive functions.
===Cuisine===
The most recent local election took place on 10 March 2022. Atitlanese citizens in the islands also vote in Atitlanese federal elections as part of the Atlalilico constituency.
The Mavean diet consists largely of meat from marine mammals, fish, and birds. Because of the lack of arable land and the country's geography, much of Mavea's diety is derived from the ocean. The national dish is the ''tupiril pnaa'' ("second duck"), which emerged from the use of leftover roasted meat from the pintail.
Fish is a common ingredient. Popular fish used in Mavean dishes include the zebra trout and the spotted minnow, both of which are commonly used in breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Until 1998, otter meat was a commonly used ingredient, but an effort to protect them, as well as its adoption as Mava's national animal, led to a significant reduction in the consumption of otter. In 2016, the buying, butchering, and selling of otter meat was made illegal.
===Future developments===
Because of Mava’s small population and its financial dependence on the Atitlanese federal government, a number of Atitlanese and Mavean political figures have advocated for the full annexation of the islands. Former mayor Argo Naniita suggested the islands become a commune of Atlalilico, whilst former cabinet minister Iago Jimenez raised the possibility of the islands being a sui generis commune under federal authority.
===Sport===
== Economy ==
Maveans consider sport an important part of their culture, being amongst the most active populations in the world. Popular sports include football, track and field, canoeing, shooting, and, skiing. Sporting is overseen by ''Haukaaqa Maava'' ("Sport Mava"), a public body sponsored by the government and which oversees and implements policies relating to sporting.
Mava's economy is heavily reliant on federal government subsidies to local industry. Due to the islands' remoteness and geography, only a small amount of the land is available for economic activity.
Because of its geography and climate, winter sports are common across the country. Skiing is widely considered the national sport, with fishing, snowboarding, luge, and bobsleigh common across generations. Although the environment is not generally suited to them, sports such as golf, tennis, and surfing are present and of increasing popularity.
Sheep ranching is the main source of the islands' agricultural income and output, providing wool, meat, and hides for domestic, Atitlanese, and international markets.
===Media===
In the 21st century, tourism has become an important part of the islands' economy. 20,000 people visited Mava in 2009-10, increasing to 40,000 by 2017-18. The majority of visitors are Atitlanese, although other nationalities include [[Gavrilia|Gavrilians]] and [[Ibarmentudia|Ibarmentudiaks]]. The rise in tourism has led to the establishment of a number of hotels, restaurants, and other recreational facilities oriented towards foreign travellers. Of particular appeal to tourists is the islands' mountains, glaciers, forests, rivers, and, in recent years, ski centres.
The Department of Culture, Media, Youth and Sport is responsible for overseeing and regulating media and broadcasting. The public broadcasting company of Mava is ''Maavamuqtun Ikaamaa Haarapaktaagik'' (Mavean Broadcasting Corporation; MIH), which is state owned and funded through general taxation and advertising. Around three hundred people are employed by MKH, and provides television, radio, and internet services across the country. Pa'a, the headquarters of MKH, also has its own local television and radio station, ''Paikuwak Haarapaktaagik'' ("Capital Broadcasting"), which reaches more than 15,000 households, broadcasting one television channel and two radio channels.
Five newspapers are published in Mava, three of which are distributed nationally. The weekly newspaper ''Nauawaaqak'' ("Review") is published every Friday, with an online version updated several times a day. It was originally published in Pa'a (as ''Paasmuqtun Nauawaaqak''), becoming a nationwide newspaper in 1984 under its current name. ''Maawknaar'' ("Daily Mail") and ''Maavamuqtun Aaiakaga'' ("The Mavean Guardian") are also published on a weekly and bi-weekly basis respectively. Local newspapers are also published on the Outer Islands.
==See also==
==See also==
* [[Politics of Mava]]
* [[Politics of Mava]]
* Culture of Mava
* [[Law enforcement in Mava]]
==Notes==
==Notes==
Latest revision as of 18:43, 28 November 2024
Mava
Unincorporated territorial area
Territory of the Mava Islands Territorio de las Islas Mava (Almagrian) Maava Tlaanigat Chuumuk (Mavean)
Maava (/mɑːvə/; Mavean: Maava), officially the Territory of the Mava Islands is an Atitlanese dependent territory in the Sarosan Ocean, comprising a group of three islands. It has an area of 1,734 square kilometres (670 sq mi), the largest of which, Mava Island, gives its name to the territory.
The territory had a population of 2,102 residents as of 2021, half of which are native Mavean. Before the twentieth century, there were few non-indigenous people living in the islands; the opening of mines has encouraged an influx of different people of different ethnicities since the 1940s. Almost all live in settlements along the northern coast of Mava Island, the largest of which is Paas. The official languages are Mavean and Almagrian, with the latter the language of government.
The first settlers arrived on the islands in the 9th century from continental Triania. Colonial contact first occurred in the 1820s and Atitlan claimed sovereignty over the islands in 1828. Beginning in the early 20th century, mining operations led to a large influx of settlers from Atitlan and other countries. In 1979, a referendum on self-government narrowly failed; in a second referendum in 1999, self-government was approved. Since 2003, Mava has been an unincorporated territorial area, with federal powers devolved to a local island administration.
There have been several attempts to introduce home rule to the islands. The first attempt, in 1979, failed when a narrow majority voted against proposals in a referendum. In 1981, proposals to extend the powers of the island council failed, with the eventual devolution of powers in 1989 largely limited to culture and language.
In 1999, a second referendum on home rule passed. The 2003 Law on the Governance of the Mava Islands provided for devolution of powers to a new Mava Islands Council. The position of Governor was abolished and executive power shared by a federally-appointed Administrator and a locally-elected Mayor.
In recent times, the economy of the island has began to diversify, although it remains heavily dependent on Atitlan. Mining continues to entice business and entrepreneurs, but recent years have seen population numbers stabilise as more visitors settle permanently.
Geography
The Mava Islands consist of three islands (Mava, Arrone, and Degach) and a number of smaller rocks and islets, with a total area of 1,734km2 (670 sq mi). The largest is Mava, which is approximately 77km long and 18km wide. The other two islands are significantly smaller: Arrone is around 11km long and 4km wide and Degack 5km and 3km wide.
Approximately 30 percent of the islands is covered in Magellanic subpolar forests, mostly in the south. The forests are home to a variety of flora. The southern beech (Nothofagus) is a common tree across the three islands. Because of the mostly untouched nature of many of these forests, a variety of animals have successfully established habitats. Amongst Mava's fauna include the Magellanic woodpecker, the Trianian sierra-finch, and the Trianian condor.
The islands of Mava, Arrone, and Degach, and some other smaller roks and islets, have a total area of 1,734 km2 (670 sq mi). Mava is the largest island, being approximately 77km long and 18km wide; Arrone is approximately 11km long and 4km wide, and Degack is approximately 15km long and 3km wide.
Climate
Each island has a maritime climate sitting in the transition region between the tundra (Köppen classifications ET) and subarctic zones (Cfc). The climate is characterised by a minimal temperature range across days and seasons. There is no marked wet and dry season, with the climate influenced by the cool ocean currents and southerly winds.
The average maximum temperature in January is around 12 °C (55 °F), whilst the July maximum average temperature drops to around 2 °C (35 °F). Average rainfall ranges from around 280-300mm in lowland areas to upwards of 1,500 mm in mountain terrain. Average rainfall is 890 mm. The weather is also characterised by humidity and high winds, the latter inspiring the name of the "Windy Islands". In wintertime, gales are particularly common. Despite the cold climate, snow is not common at any time of year, although it can appear in all months.
Source: Oficina Federal de Meteorología y Atmósfera
Government
Mava is a self-governing autonomous territorial area of Atitlan, administered by the federal Ministry of Land and Urban Development.
The legal system is under the authority of the federal government. An administrator is appointed by the minister to represent the federal government locally. The territory is within the jurisdiction of the High Court of Atlalilico (‘’Tribunal Superior de Atlalilico’’’, TSA). A local magistrates’ court sits in Paas, which is part of the TSA’s magistracy.
Under the 2003 Law on the Governance of the Mava Islands (‘’Almagrian: Ley de gobernanza de las islas Mava’’; LGIM), Atlalilico laws apply to Mava, although their application is at the discretion of the federal government. A unicameral Mava Islands Council, with eleven seats, enacts laws for the island and provides local government services. Whilst the Administrator is the formal head of government, a directly-elected mayor fulfils many executive functions.
The most recent local election took place on 10 March 2022. Atitlanese citizens in the islands also vote in Atitlanese federal elections as part of the Atlalilico constituency.
Future developments
Because of Mava’s small population and its financial dependence on the Atitlanese federal government, a number of Atitlanese and Mavean political figures have advocated for the full annexation of the islands. Former mayor Argo Naniita suggested the islands become a commune of Atlalilico, whilst former cabinet minister Iago Jimenez raised the possibility of the islands being a sui generis commune under federal authority.
Economy
Mava's economy is heavily reliant on federal government subsidies to local industry. Due to the islands' remoteness and geography, only a small amount of the land is available for economic activity.
Sheep ranching is the main source of the islands' agricultural income and output, providing wool, meat, and hides for domestic, Atitlanese, and international markets.
In the 21st century, tourism has become an important part of the islands' economy. 20,000 people visited Mava in 2009-10, increasing to 40,000 by 2017-18. The majority of visitors are Atitlanese, although other nationalities include Gavrilians and Ibarmentudiaks. The rise in tourism has led to the establishment of a number of hotels, restaurants, and other recreational facilities oriented towards foreign travellers. Of particular appeal to tourists is the islands' mountains, glaciers, forests, rivers, and, in recent years, ski centres.
Atitlan
