Nauru is selling citizenship to raise funds for relocating 10,000 residents threatened by climate change-induced flooding. The Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program offers new citizens travel benefits and aims to raise over USD 65 million for the island’s transformation and safety. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including financial verification and a clean background.
Nauru, the third smallest country in the world, is facing severe risks from climate change, specifically flooding that threatens to displace roughly 10,000 residents from their low-lying homes. In a proactive measure, Nauru has initiated a citizenship program aimed at funding relocation efforts by offering passports to foreigners for a fee starting at USD 130,000. Although many of the new citizens may never visit the island, they receive benefits such as visa-free access to 89 countries including Hong Kong, Singapore, the UK, and the UAE.
To implement this relocation initiative, dubbed the Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program, the nation seeks to gather over USD 65 million for development projects. The program offers interested applicants various advantages like flexibility in travel, and the ability to include family members in the application. Applicants must meet certain criteria, including being at least 18 years old, having a clean personal background, and proving a legitimate source of funds.
This initiative not only addresses the imminent threat of flooding but also aims to construct a new township, create job opportunities, and establish farms on higher ground. The plan anticipates relocating approximately 90 percent of Nauru’s population to ensure their safety and sustainability. Nauru is known for its stunning geographical features, including coral reefs, white-sand beaches, and dense tropical vegetation, emphasizing the importance of preserving this unique environment.
In summary, Nauru’s innovative approach to combat climate change involves selling citizenship to generate funds necessary for relocating its vulnerable population. This initiative not only provides financial support for infrastructure development but also offers international benefits for new citizens. As climate change poses an ever-increasing threat, initiatives like Nauru’s may serve as important case studies for other nations facing similar challenges.
Original Source: www.travelandleisureasia.com
