“Recognizing the hope and aspirations of our youth for their future” is the theme of this year’s World Population Day. Achieving this vision begins with understanding our young people through quality data and ensuring that no one is left behind in national development.
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As part of the 2026 World Population Day commemoration held in Nuku’alofa on 24 July 2026, and led by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Tonga Statistics Department (TSD) was invited to present a National Outlook on Tonga’s Youth Demographic Trends. The event was honoured by the presence of the Hon. Prime Minister of Tonga, Lord Fakafanua, as the Guest of Honour. The programme also featured remarks from the UNFPA Asia and the Pacific Regional Director, Dr. Aleksandar (Sasha) Bodiroza and the Chair of the Legislative Assembly’s Population and Development Standing Committee, Lord Maʻafu, while the welcoming remark was delivered by the Government Statistician, Mr. Sione Lolohea. TSD’s presentation highlighted demographic changes over the past three decades, with a particular focus on findings from the 2021 Population and Housing Census.
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During the event, the Tonga Statistics Department officially released the 2021 Youth Monograph Report together with its accompanying Youth Factsheet. The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the characteristics, demographic profile, and living circumstances of young people aged 15–34 years in Tonga, using data from the 2021 Population and Housing Census. It offers valuable evidence to support policy development, planning, and investment in youth, contributing to Tonga’s sustainable development.
The Tonga Statistics Department sincerely acknowledges the invaluable support and cooperation of the people of Tonga during the 2021 Population and Housing Census. Their participation made it possible to produce this important publication, which provides an evidence base for understanding the country’s youth population and informing future decision-making.
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As Tonga prepares for the next Population and Housing Census on 30 November 2026, TSD encourages the youth of Tonga to continue making their voices count by participating in the census and engaging in national development. Every young person has a unique story, and every response contributes to a clearer understanding of the opportunities, aspirations, and challenges facing Tonga’s youth. TSD also looks forward to receiving the same strong support and cooperation from the public. Every person counted contributes to a more accurate picture of our nation and helps ensure that decisions affecting Tonga’s future are based on reliable and inclusive data.
The 2021 Youth Monograph Report and Youth Factsheet are available from the Tonga Statistics Department and can also be accessed through this link: Youth | Tonga Statistics Department