Archive · 31 Jul 2026
Nauru Renames Itself Naoero to Strengthen Identity
Nauru, a tiny island in the Pacific, decided to change its name back to the old one, Naoero.
The change was made after the government talked a lot and decided not to hold a vote.
President David Adeang said it was about keeping the country’s culture alive, not politics.
People will now be called "dei‑Naoero" and the short name will be "Naoero".
The government has told other countries and international groups about the new name and is starting the change.
Nauru officially changed its name to the Republic of Naoero, reverting to its traditional name.
The change followed a constitutional amendment and a decision to drop a planned referendum.
President David Adeang said the move is about preserving cultural heritage, not politics.
Citizens will be called "dei‑Naoero" and the abbreviated name will be "Naoero".
The government has notified international bodies and begun the transition process.
- Who
- President David Adeang and the Nauru parliament
- What
- Renaming the country to the Republic of Naoero
- When
- July 31, 2024
- Where
- Nauru, a Pacific island nation
- Why
- To strengthen national identity and preserve cultural heritage
- Official name
- Republic of Naoero
- Former name
- Nauru
- Date of change
- July 31, 2024
- Population
- about 12,000
- Abbreviation
- Naoero