The Pacific island nation formerly known as Nauru has officially adopted a new name, the Republic of Naoero, marking a historic step aimed at restoring its indigenous identity and preserving its cultural heritage.
The change aligns the country’s official English name with the spelling and pronunciation used in its native language. Authorities say the move is intended to correct a version of the name that was altered during the colonial era when European settlers found “Naoero” difficult to pronounce.
President David Adeang confirmed that the transition is now underway after the country’s parliament approved a constitutional amendment in May 2026. Although there were initial plans to hold a national referendum, the government later decided it was unnecessary because the name “Naoero” has always been part of the country’s identity.
According to Adeang, the traditional name already appears on the nation’s coat of arms, is commonly spoken by citizens, and is recognised under the country’s constitution.
“The decision not to pursue a referendum was reached after thoughtful deliberation that Naoero is not a new name seeking acceptance by the people,” the president said.
He added that the change reflects the country’s heritage rather than any political agenda, describing it as the beginning of renewed national pride and a way to preserve the legacy of future generations.
With the transition, the country’s short name is now Naoero, pronounced approximately as “Now-ero.” Citizens will now be referred to as dei-Naoero instead of Nauruans, while the country’s international code will change from NRU to NRO.
The government has already informed the United Nations and governments around the world of the decision. International organisations and several foreign ministries have begun updating official records, documents and databases to reflect the new name.
Covering just 21 square kilometres with a population of around 12,000 people, Naoero remains the third smallest country in the world by both land area and population, behind only Vatican City and Monaco.
Located in the Micronesia region of the Pacific Ocean, the island was once known as Pleasant Island before it came under German colonial rule. It was later administered by Australia before gaining independence in 1968.
Officials say the renaming is part of a broader national effort to strengthen the country’s cultural identity. The indigenous language, dorerin Naoero, is listed by UNESCO as severely endangered. Although it is not yet widely taught in schools, the government has approved plans to introduce it into the education system as part of efforts to protect the language and pass it on to younger generations.
The adoption of the name Naoero places the island nation among a growing number of countries that have restored traditional or indigenous names in recent years. Examples include Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, and Türkiye, which replaced the English version “Turkey” in official international usage.
As the transition continues, the government is updating national symbols, official documents, aircraft registrations and ships to reflect the country’s new name, reinforcing its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while presenting its authentic identity to the rest of the world.
