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NewsKPBS Public MediaAugust 4, 2026San Diego

Nauru changes national name to Republic of Naoero

The Pacific Island nation of Nauru has officially changed its name to the Republic of Naoero to align with its traditional language and heritage. The change includes updating the international country code from NRU to NRO and referring to its citizens as dei-Naoero.

international relationssovereigntycultural heritagegeopolitics
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Why It Matters

This change affects how the nation is identified in international legal, diplomatic, and travel documents, requiring updates to national infrastructure like aircraft and ships.

Key Facts

  • The country has officially changed its name from Nauru to the Republic of Naoero.
  • The international country code is changing from NRU to NRO.
  • Citizens will be referred to as dei-Naoero instead of Nauruan.
  • The pronunciation changes from 'Now-roo' to 'Now-ero'.
  • The government decided against holding a public referendum on the name change.
  • The name Naoero already appears on the national coat of arms.
  • The United Nations officially recognized the name change in June.
  • The change requires renaming national aircraft and ships.
  • Nauru is the world's third-smallest country by population with 12,000 residents.

Who's Mentioned

organizationUnited Nations“International body that has updated its records to Naoero”personDavid Adeang“President of Nauru who proposed the name change”other12,000“Population size of the country”locationNauru“The country changing its name”