The Maldives is the world's lowest-lying country by average elevation, with its natural ground level only about 1.5 metres above sea level.
This Indian Ocean nation consists of 26 natural atolls containing hundreds of coral islands. Its highest natural point is only around 2.4 metres above sea level, making the country especially exposed to coastal flooding and erosion.
The Maldives gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1965 and became a republic in 1968. Malé, the capital, is one of the most densely settled islands in the archipelago.
Tuvalu and Kiribati are also exceptionally low-lying Pacific countries, so they are frequent answers to related questions. The Maldives is distinguished by having the lowest average elevation overall.