Nauru is the smallest island nation in the world, covering only 21 km², and located in the western Pacific Ocean. Today, this country with a population of about 10,000 people faces a set of unique challenges that call its future existence into question. The historical consequences of phosphate mining, the threats of climate change, and the scarcity of resources create a complex situation requiring innovative solutions.
Nauru is among the countries most vulnerable to global climate change. According to scientists' forecasts, by 2100, rising sea levels may render up to 80% of the island’s territory uninhabitable. Even now:
Economic problems are no less severe. After most phosphate mines were shut down, the country lost its main source of income. Today Nauru faces:
Nauru’s economic history is a cautionary tale of the "resource curse." In the 1960s and 70s, the country had the highest per capita GDP in the world due to phosphate mining. However, mismanagement of this wealth led to disaster.
Boom period (1968–1989):
Environmental consequences:
Today, mining continues, but on a much smaller scale. Remaining reserves are estimated at 20–30 million tons, which at the current pace will last until 2030–2035.
The government of Nauru has developed a comprehensive sustainable development program through 2030, including several key areas.
In 2023, Nauru launched an updated economic citizenship program aimed at attracting investment in sustainable development. Program features:
Funds are distributed as follows:
The program includes strict screening:
Nauru is actively developing partnerships to address its challenges.
With Australia:
With China:
With the EU:
The future of Nauru presents a difficult choice between becoming a model of successful transformation and serving as a cautionary tale for other small island nations. Despite its small size, the country’s ambitions are reflected in concrete plans.
These plans include restoring 50% of degraded land by 2030 and creating 2,000 new jobs. Additionally, Nauru aims to reduce its dependence on food imports to 60% and seeks to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
The achievement of these goals will depend on three decisive conditions. The first is the success of the economic citizenship program. The second is receiving support from international partners. The third, equally important, is the internal unity of Nauru’s people.
The president of the country noted that while the past cannot be changed, building a better future is within their power. Nauru’s story illustrates a key principle: it is possible to overcome the most serious environmental and economic difficulties.
To do so requires innovation, sustainable resource management, and active international cooperation — the very path Nauru is pursuing.
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