Nauru changes its name to Republic of Naoero to embrace national language

Nauru, the world's third-smallest country, has officially renamed itself the Republic of Naoero, embracing its traditional name and pronunciation. The change, announced by President David Adeang, aims to better reflect the nation's heritage and identity, moving away from the name 'Nauru' which was adopted for foreign convenience.

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This change proposed seeks to more faithfully honor our nation's heritage, our language, and our identity.

President Adeang presented the constitutional amendment to parliament in January, stating the change would "more faithfully honor our nation's heritage, our language, and our identity." The move seeks to reclaim the traditional name, "Naoero," which was previously difficult for international speakers to pronounce. The country code will shift from NRU to NRO, and its inhabitants will now be known as dei-Naoero, replacing the term 'nauruanos'.

This rebranding signifies a "renewed national pride," according to Adeang. The small island nation, with about 12,000 inhabitants, has a complex history, including a period of immense wealth from phosphate mining in the 1970s followed by economic hardship. Today, Nauru is among the countries most threatened by rising sea levels, prompting the government to seek foreign investment and explore relocation options.

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This change marks 'the beginning of a renewed national pride.'

While a referendum was initially considered, lawmakers decided against it, asserting that the name "Naoero was never lost, but merely awaiting full adoption." The government believes the change honors the people's will without a popular vote, marking a significant step in reclaiming its cultural identity amidst environmental challenges.

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While a referendum is intended to ascertain the will of the people, the name Naoero was never lost, but merely awaiting full adoption.