Background:
This atoll is a volcanic rock surrounded by reefs and is awash at high tide. A French possession since 1897, it was placed under the administration of an Administrateur Superieur of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands.

NOTE: The information regarding Bassas da India on this page is re-published from the 2006 World Fact Book of the United States Central Intelligence Agency. No claims are made regarding the accuracy of Bassas da India Introduction 2006 information contained here. All suggestions for corrections of any errors about Bassas da India Introduction 2006 should be addressed to the CIA.