Wallis and Futuna is divided into 3 royaumes (kingdoms), which constitute the territory's primary administrative subdivision. These royaumes—Uvea (on Wallis Island), Sigave, and Alo (both on Futuna Island)—represent a unique governance structure that blends traditional Polynesian chieftaincy with French colonial administration. Each royaume is headed by a customary king (lavelua in Uvea, tuigaifo in Sigave and Alo) who exercises authority over local customary matters, land disputes, and traditional ceremonies alongside the French administrative apparatus. The kings work in conjunction with the French-appointed Administrator Superior and elected Territorial Assembly to manage local affairs. This dual system preserves indigenous political structures while maintaining French sovereignty, with the royaumes serving essential functions in cultural preservation, customary law enforcement, and community organization at the local level.