Nauru, a small Pacific microstate, has introduced a unique “climate resilience citizenship” programme, selling passports at US$105,000 each.
The funds are aimed at combating climate change.
- The “climate resilience citizenship” scheme could be linked to broader discussions on financing climate action, the role of global cooperation, and the effectiveness of non-traditional funding models.
About Nauru
- Location & Geography: Nauru is located in the Pacific Ocean and a microstate in Oceania, roughly 1,300 km north of Australia.
- The island is dominated by a central phosphate plateau which is surrounded by coral cliffs
- There are no rivers and lakes on the Island; only a landlocked, freshwater lake – Buada Lagoon is found
It is the third smallest country by land area in the world, covering only 21 square kilometers.
- It is geographically positioned to the south of the Equator and hence lies both in the Southern and Eastern hemispheres of the Earth
- Population: Nauru has a population of around 10,000 people (one of the least populous nations).
- Lowest Point: The lowest point is the South Pacific Ocean
- Economy & Resources: Historically, Nauru’s economy was heavily reliant on phosphate mining, though reserves have dwindled.
- The island has limited agricultural land and natural resources, making it highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
- Strategic Location: Nauru’s location in the Pacific also places it at the center of regional and global maritime routes, giving it geopolitical significance in terms of international relations in the Pacific region.
- Climate Vulnerability: As a low-lying island, Nauru faces severe threats from rising sea levels, making climate change resilience a top priority for its government.