Austronesians (in relation to Europe)

Austronesians are a widespread group of peoples originating from Southeast Asia and the Pacific, known for maritime skills and seafaring. Their languages form the Austronesian language family, which includes Polynesian, Malay, and Filipino languages. In relation to Europe, Austronesians are not native but have influenced regions such as Madagascar through ancient trade and migration, and have distant historical ties via broader Eurasian connections. Their significance in European contexts is primarily through exploration, trade, and cultural exchanges across oceans, demonstrating early global maritime networks rather than direct European roots.