Why is french guiana unique as a colony

It is classed as an overseas territory; its currency is the euro and its official language is French, although many also speak Creole. It is bigger than Belgium, but has a population of about , people compared with Belgium's 11 million. Its tough environment - including scorching heat and sharks - was made famous in the book Papillon, which later became a film staring Dustin Hoffman and Steve McQueen.

Protesters have a catalogue of issues they want France to urgently address, from education and health needs, to rising violent crime. The issue has even been raised during the French presidential election campaign - although leading candidate Emmanuel Macron wrongly referred to the territory as an island when discussing the crisis.

French Guiana is largely covered in Amazon rainforest, with its development centred on a handful of towns hugging the coastline. One of these towns - Kourou - is home to the Guiana Space Station, which is used by the European Space Agency and the French government to launch satellites into space.

Protesters say money is poured into the station, while the people's welfare is neglected. Last month, the Brothers group took over the space station and delayed a satellite launch. They relinquished their occupation last week, but continue to protest. However, voters rejected the option of increased autonomy in a referendum.

France occupied the territory in the 17th century. The Dutch and Spanish also settled the area. Until the s, France dispatched convicts to penal colonies there, including the notorious Devil's Island. Another former penal settlement, Kourou, is home to a European Space Agency rocket launch site, accounting for a significant slice of GDP and lending strategic value.

Head of state: President of France. An appointed prefect represents the French government in Paris. Two elected councils - the Conseil General and the Conseil Regional - exercise power locally.

However, enthusiasm for either is lacking, and the small independence movement has made little headway in recent years. The French government has also made it clear that it will not countenance any change in French Guiana's status for the time being. Did you know? Conservative casual wear is suitable almost everywhere.

On beaches, modest beachwear is preferred. The official language is French, though most of the population speak a Creole patois. English is also widely spoken. Introducing French Guiana. Plan your trip.