Nauru, February 26, 2025—Nauru has introduced a “golden passport” scheme, selling citizenship for US$105,000 to fund relocation efforts as rising sea levels threaten its coastal areas. President David Adeang said existing climate funding is inadequate, and the initiative is crucial for the nation’s future. Once wealthy from phosphate mining, Nauru has lost 80 percent of its land to degradation, while sea levels are rising at an alarming rate.
The government aims to generate US$5.7 million in the first year and increase this to US$43 million, covering nearly 20 percent of its revenue. With 90 percent of residents needing relocation, the first phase alone will cost over US$60 million. Despite concerns about potential misuse, Nauru insists the scheme is essential for its survival.
