Nauru Officially Renames Itself Naoero
The Pacific island nation has officially adopted Naoero, restoring its traditional name and reinforcing its cultural identity on the global stage.
The Republic of Naoero has officially adopted its traditional name, marking a major step in celebrating its cultural identity and national heritage.
Formerly known internationally as Nauru, the Pacific island nation has changed its official name to Republic of Naoero. President David Adeang said the decision reflects the country’s commitment to its history, language and future. He described the move as one centred on identity rather than politics, saying it is about “preserving the legacy of our ancestors and strengthening the future of our children”.
The Republic of Naoero requested the change in June, and the United Nations has already updated its records. Australia, New Zealand, and the United States and Chinese embassies in the region have also begun using the country’s new name on their official websites.
As part of the transition, the country’s international code will change from NRU to NRO, while its citizens will now be known as dei-Naoero instead of Nauruan. Although many people abroad pronounced the former name as “Now-roo”, the new official name is spoken as “Now-ero”.
The government explained that Republic of Naoero restores the island’s original name, which had previously been replaced mainly because it was easier for foreigners to pronounce. Lawmakers approved the constitutional amendment through the required parliamentary votes. After further discussions, they decided that a planned public referendum was no longer necessary.
Home to around 12,000 people, the Republic of Naoero is the world’s third-smallest country by population, behind Tuvalu and Vatican City. The island gained independence from Australian administration in 1968 after earlier colonial rule by Germany.
Today, the country continues to face serious threats from rising sea levels linked to climate change. Its government is also pursuing overseas investment through a citizenship programme to help fund the relocation of communities and critical infrastructure threatened by the encroaching ocean.
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