Nauru Sells Citizenship to Address Climate Change Challenges

Nauru is selling citizenships to finance the relocation of approximately 10,000 residents affected by climate change. The program allows foreigners to acquire Nauru passports for a minimum investment of USD 130,000 and offers various travel benefits. President David Adeang aims to raise over USD 65 million to develop new infrastructure on safer ground and relocate the majority of the island’s population.

Nauru, the third smallest country globally, is addressing the urgent issue of climate change by selling citizenships. To fund the relocation of approximately 10,000 residents from flood-prone areas, the island nation is offering passports for a minimum investment of USD 130,000. This initiative aims to generate financial resources necessary for developing new infrastructure on higher ground, thereby ensuring the safety and resilience of its populace.

The decision comes in light of Nauru’s escalating vulnerability to extreme flooding and its degraded agricultural landscape due to phosphate mining. The Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program not only provides foreigners with the opportunity to acquire a second citizenship but offers them benefits such as visa-free access to 89 countries, including the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and the United Arab Emirates.

Applicants must be 18 years or older, demonstrate a clean background, and verify a legitimate source of funds. The program includes options for family members, allowing spouses and dependents to be part of the application. The costs for citizenship vary, from USD 130,000 for individuals to USD 145,000 for larger families, with potential additional fees involved.

The initiative, led by President David Adeang, aspires to raise over USD 65 million, paving the way for a new township, job creation, and agricultural development. This effort seeks to ultimately relocate around 90 percent of Nauru’s population to safer areas, amidst the island’s picturesque landscape of coral reefs and tropical environments.

In summary, Nauru is uniquely tackling the dual challenges of climate change and population displacement through its citizenship program. By offering foreigners the chance to obtain a passport in exchange for financial contributions, the country aims to generate essential funds for relocating residents to higher ground. This strategic initiative reflects the urgency of addressing climate impacts, ensuring the safety of its people while providing advantageous opportunities for new citizens.

Original Source: www.travelandleisureasia.com