Nauru Changes Official Name to Naoero, Adopting Indigenous Spelling

1-Minute Brief

The name change reflects a broader movement among Pacific nations to reclaim indigenous identity and move away from colonial legacies.

Key Facts

• The Pacific Island country of Nauru has officially changed its name to the Republic of Naoero.
• The new name matches the spelling and pronunciation in the national language.
• The country’s international code will change from NRU to NRO.
• The people will now be known as dei-Naoero instead of Nauruan.
• Naoero is described as one of the countries most at risk from climate change.

What Happened

Nauru's president announced that the country will now be officially known as the Republic of Naoero, aligning its name with the indigenous language and identity.

Why It Matters

This change is part of a wider regional trend among Pacific nations to restore traditional names and assert cultural independence, while also drawing attention to the country's vulnerability to climate change.

What's Next

International organizations and foreign governments are expected to update references to the country and its code. Observers may watch for further cultural or policy changes reflecting indigenous priorities.