World’s 3rd smallest country Nauru selling citizenship for ₹91 lakh
Nauru, a tiny island nation in the southwest Pacific Ocean, has taken a bold step to secure its future in the face of an existential threat from rising sea levels. The country, which is the world’s third-smallest, has launched a “golden passport” initiative, offering foreigners citizenship of the country for a hefty sum of $105,000 (approximately ₹91 lakh).
This unique endeavor is an attempt to raise funds to fund climate action and relocate the country’s population to higher ground. The government plans to move around 90% of the island’s population to safer areas, away from the threat of rising sea levels.
Located about 42 kilometers (26 miles) south of the equator, Nauru is a small island with a population of around 11,000. The country’s economy has been heavily reliant on phosphate mining, but this industry has been declining in recent years. The government is now seeking alternative sources of revenue to ensure the country’s survival.
The “golden passport” initiative is a new strategy to attract foreign investment and talent to Nauru. The program offers citizenship to individuals who meet certain criteria, including a clean criminal record, proficiency in English, and a minimum investment of $105,000 in the country.
In return, successful applicants will receive a Nauruan passport, which offers visa-free travel to over 130 countries, including those in the European Union, the United States, and Australia. The passport is also recognized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The Nauruan government has partnered with a private company, Affinity International, to manage the “golden passport” program. The company has previously managed similar programs for other countries, including St. Lucia and Dominica.
The program is expected to generate significant revenue for Nauru, which will be used to fund climate change mitigation efforts and relocate the population to higher ground. The government has set a target of raising $100 million (approximately ₹760 crore) through the program in the next three years.
While the “golden passport” initiative is an innovative way for Nauru to raise funds, it has also raised concerns about the potential impact on the country’s culture and identity. Some critics argue that the program could lead to an influx of foreign nationals who may not have a genuine connection to the country.
However, the Nauruan government has emphasized that the program is designed to bring in qualified individuals who can contribute to the country’s development and growth. The government has also pledged to ensure that the program does not compromise the country’s sovereignty or cultural heritage.
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, Nauru’s “golden passport” initiative is a bold move to secure the country’s future. The program offers a unique opportunity for individuals to acquire a valuable asset while also contributing to the preservation of a vulnerable island nation.
For those who are interested in acquiring Nauruan citizenship, the application process is expected to be streamlined and efficient. The government has set up a dedicated website and has established a team to review applications and provide guidance to applicants.
As the world watches Nauru’s innovative approach to securing its future, it is clear that the country is willing to think outside the box to address the challenges posed by climate change. The “golden passport” initiative is a testament to the country’s resilience and determination to survive and thrive in the face of adversity.
