Nauru Facts

Country Profile

Known as the smallest island country, the Republic of Nauru is located in the central and western Pacific Ocean, 60 kilometers south of the equator. Covering an area of 21.1 square kilometers, Nauru is the world’s smallest island nation, with a population of only 12,000, 58% of whom are Nauru. Residents are Christian, with Nauru and English spoken. The currency is the Australian dollar and the capital is Yaren.

Nauru National Flag

Nauru’s flag is blue with a yellow strip across in the center. Blue represents the sky and the sea, and the yellow stripe symbolizes the equator. A 12 pointed white star symbolizes Nauru’s 12 tribes.

Country facts

• Naoero / Republic of Nauru
• Country abbreviation: NO
• Area: 21.3 km²
• Population (2019): 13,000 residents
• Main location: Yaren
• Main language: Nauru
• State: Republic
• Head of State and Head of Government: Lionel Aingimea (President)
• Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 9,030
• GNI per capita (2018): US $ 11,240
• Currency unit: 1 Australian dollar = 100 cents
• Currency code: AUD
• Country Number (Telephony): 674
• Internet domain name: no
• Time difference compared to Sweden: +11
• National Day: January 31 (Independence Day, 1968)

Nature

• Land use: agricultural land (10%), other (90%)
• Highest mountain: not named height (65 m above sea level)

Population

• Population density (2019): 610 residents per km²
• Natural population growth (2019): 2.1%; birthrate 29 ‰, death count 8 ‰
• Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (40%), 15-64 (47%), 65- (13%)
• Life expectancy (2019): men 57 years, women 65 years
• Infant mortality (2019): 35 per 1,000 live births
• Population forecast 2050: 14,000 residents
• HDI: no data available
• Urbanization rate (2019): 100%
• Most populous cities: the country has no cities

Geography of Nauru

Location

Nauru is a small island nation located in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 2,500 kilometers (1,600 miles) northeast of Australia. It is situated just south of the equator, making it part of the Micronesian region of Oceania. Nauru is the third smallest country in the world by land area, after Vatican City and Monaco, covering only about 21 square kilometers (8.1 square miles). The island is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and is one of the few countries that do not have an official capital city. The main administrative center is in the district of Yaren, where the government operates.

Topography

Nauru’s topography is characterized by a central plateau surrounded by a narrow coastal strip. The island has no rivers or streams, and freshwater resources are scarce. The central plateau, which occupies about three-quarters of the island, is an elevated area with a coral limestone surface. The island’s coast is generally lined with a reef, and the beaches are typically sandy. Nauru’s elevation ranges from sea level at the coast to about 71 meters (233 feet) at its highest point, a peak called Command Ridge. Much of Nauru’s natural landscape is impacted by phosphate mining, which has left parts of the island’s interior scarred by large pits and barren land.

Surrounding Ocean

Nauru is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, and its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) extends 200 nautical miles into the surrounding waters. This relatively small island has limited marine resources, although the waters around Nauru are rich in fish and provide some income through fishing activities. Nauru’s reef also supports marine biodiversity, though overfishing is a concern in the area.

Natural Resources

Nauru is primarily known for its phosphate deposits, which have been a major economic resource for the country. The island’s phosphate reserves, formed from seabird droppings over millennia, are located in the central plateau and have been mined for over a century. Phosphate mining has significantly impacted Nauru’s natural environment, leaving large portions of the island barren and altering the landscape. While phosphate is the island’s most important resource, Nauru’s economy is highly dependent on the export of this mineral, and the country has faced economic challenges due to the depletion of its phosphate reserves.

Climate of Nauru

Tropical Climate

Nauru experiences a tropical climate, with warm temperatures throughout the year. The island is characterized by high humidity and little variation in temperature. Average temperatures typically range between 24°C and 32°C (75°F and 90°F) year-round, with minimal seasonal changes. The island’s tropical climate is influenced by its proximity to the equator, resulting in relatively consistent weather patterns.

Rainfall and Seasons

Rainfall in Nauru is generally abundant but irregular, and the island does not have a defined wet or dry season. The island receives about 2,000 millimeters (79 inches) of rain annually, with a peak in the wet season from November to February. However, rainfall is often intermittent, and the island can experience periods of drought. During the rainy season, heavy downpours can occur, although these are often short-lived. Nauru is situated outside the typical path of tropical cyclones, so the island is less vulnerable to storm surges or extreme weather events compared to some other Pacific islands.

Vulnerability to Climate Change

Nauru is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, especially rising sea levels. Given its low elevation and small landmass, the island is at risk of flooding and land loss due to climate change. Water scarcity is another issue, as the island relies on rainwater harvesting and a small freshwater lens beneath the island for its water supply. The island’s dependence on external sources for water and food also makes it vulnerable to disruptions caused by climate-related events such as droughts or disruptions in international trade.

People of Nauru

Population

Nauru has a small population, with an estimated 10,000 residents, making it one of the least populous countries in the world. The population is concentrated in a few settlements along the coast, with the largest concentration in the district of Yaren, which also serves as the country’s de facto capital. Despite its small size, Nauru has a relatively young population, with a median age of around 20 years. The country’s population has been in decline in recent years, partly due to emigration, with many Nauruans seeking better opportunities abroad, particularly in Australia and New Zealand.

Ethnic Composition

The majority of Nauru’s population is of Nauruan descent, an Austronesian ethnic group native to the island. The Nauruans have a distinct language, culture, and traditions that are closely tied to their island home. There are also smaller communities of people of mixed Pacific Islander, Micronesian, and European descent. In recent years, the island has seen an influx of foreign workers from countries such as the Philippines, Australia, and China, particularly for work in the phosphate mining sector, administration, and infrastructure development.

Language

Nauru’s official language is Nauruan, an Austronesian language that is unique to the island. Nauruan is spoken by the majority of the population, although fluency is declining among younger generations. English is also widely spoken and is the language used in government, education, and business. As a result of Nauru’s small size and limited access to education, English proficiency is crucial for many Nauruans who engage in the international job market. Despite its small size, Nauru is one of the few countries in the world where the native language is still the primary language spoken by the population.

Religion

The majority of Nauru’s population practices Christianity, with the island having a mix of Protestant and Catholic communities. Protestant denominations, such as the Nauru Congregational Church and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon), are prominent. The island’s Christian population celebrates the main Christian holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, with cultural and religious observances. There is also a small Muslim population in Nauru, primarily consisting of foreign workers who have come to the island for employment.

Economy of Nauru

Phosphate Mining

Nauru’s economy has historically been dominated by phosphate mining, which has been the primary source of revenue for the country for over a century. Phosphate, primarily used as a fertilizer, is abundant on the island and has been a key export. At one point, Nauru was one of the richest countries in the world in terms of GDP per capita, thanks to its phosphate reserves. However, the depletion of these reserves in recent decades has led to significant economic challenges. The government of Nauru has sought to diversify its economy by exploring new sources of income, including offshore banking, tourism, and other industries, but these efforts have been met with limited success.

External Aid and Remittances

Given the decline of its phosphate industry and the depletion of resources, Nauru relies heavily on foreign aid and remittances from citizens living abroad. Australia has provided significant financial assistance to Nauru, particularly in the form of aid for infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Nauru is also a part of the Pacific Islands Forum, and it receives financial support from international organizations such as the Asian Development Bank and the United Nations. Remittances from Nauruans working abroad, especially in Australia, provide an important source of income for many households.

Fisheries and Other Sectors

Fisheries represent a growing sector of the Nauruan economy, with the country’s exclusive economic zone providing access to a rich marine environment. Tuna fishing is particularly important, and Nauru has engaged in joint ventures with foreign companies to exploit its fishing resources. Despite its small size and limited infrastructure, Nauru also exports some agricultural products, such as coconuts, and is exploring opportunities in tourism, although the industry remains underdeveloped due to the island’s remoteness and limited resources.

Economic Challenges

Nauru faces significant economic challenges, including high unemployment, limited natural resources, and a small domestic market. The decline of the phosphate industry has left the country struggling to maintain a sustainable economy, and efforts to diversify have met with limited success. Additionally, Nauru faces issues of income inequality, with a significant proportion of the population reliant on external assistance or remittances. Over-reliance on phosphate exports has left the country vulnerable to market fluctuations, and there are concerns about the long-term economic sustainability of the island.

Government of Nauru

Political System

Nauru is a democratic republic with a multi-party system. The government is based on a parliamentary model, where the President is both the head of state and the head of government. The President is elected by the members of the Parliament, known as the Nauru Parliament, for a three-year term. The President is responsible for appointing the Cabinet, which helps to administer government affairs. Nauru has a unicameral legislature, and elections for Parliament are held every three years. The Parliament is made up of 19 members, who are elected through a modified Borda count voting system.

Executive and Legislative Branches

The executive branch of Nauru is headed by the President, who is elected from among the members of Parliament. The President appoints a Cabinet of ministers, who are responsible for various portfolios such as foreign affairs, finance, and natural resources. The President has the power to dissolve Parliament, though this is rarely used. The legislative branch, the Nauru Parliament, consists of 19 members, who are elected to serve three-year terms. The Parliament is responsible for enacting laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the executive branch. There is no formal opposition party in Nauru, and political power often shifts among different factions within Parliament.

Judiciary

Nauru’s judiciary is independent and based on a combination of English common law and customary law. The highest court in the country is the Supreme Court, which has the authority to hear cases related to constitutional matters and appeal cases. The Chief Justice is appointed by the President, and the judiciary also includes lower courts, such as the District Court, which handles criminal and civil matters. Nauru’s legal system is based on the British common law system, with some provisions for customary practices that have been passed down through generations.

Culture of Nauru

Traditional Culture

Nauru’s culture is deeply rooted in the island’s indigenous traditions. The Nauruan people have a strong connection to their land and customs, and their social structure is based around family and clan systems. The island’s traditional practices, including its language, dance, and ceremonies, remain important to the community. Nauruan customs are an essential part of daily life, and many of these traditions are passed down orally from one generation to the next.

Language and Communication

The Nauruan language is the primary language spoken on the island. It is an Austronesian language, and while it is the official language, English is widely understood, particularly in government and business contexts. The use of Nauruan is most common in family and social settings, though younger generations are often more proficient in English. The language plays a central role in maintaining Nauru’s cultural identity, and efforts to preserve and revitalize Nauruan are important to the local population.

Religion and Festivals

Christianity is the dominant religion in Nauru, with most Nauruans being Protestant or Catholic. Religious holidays such as Christmas and Easter are widely celebrated, and church services are an important part of social life. There are also indigenous practices that incorporate traditional beliefs, and elements of Nauru’s customs and religion are intertwined. Festivals and gatherings often revolve around community events, with feasts, singing, and dancing playing key roles in celebrations. Nauru’s small population allows for a tight-knit community where traditions and rituals are central to the culture.

Arts and Crafts

Nauru has a rich tradition of crafts, particularly in weaving and wood carving. Nauruans create beautiful baskets, mats, and other items using materials sourced from the island. Traditional art often reflects the island’s natural surroundings, and modern expressions of art are also found in Nauru’s cultural scene. The island’s music and dance traditions are often performed during ceremonies, and traditional songs, some dating back generations, are an essential part of the island’s cultural heritage.

History of Nauru

Early History

Nauru’s history stretches back over 3,000 years, with the island’s first inhabitants believed to be Polynesian and Micronesian settlers. These early settlers lived in small, family-based communities and developed a subsistence economy centered on fishing, farming, and the collection of seabird eggs. Nauru remained relatively isolated from the rest of the world until the arrival of Europeans in the 18th century.

European Discovery and Colonization

In 1778, British explorer Captain John Fearn became the first European to sight Nauru, although the island had already been visited by the Spanish in the 16th century. European interest in Nauru grew over the years, particularly in its phosphate resources, which were discovered in the late 19th century. The island was annexed by Germany in 1888, and later became a League of Nations mandate under Australian administration following World War I.

Phosphate Mining and Economic Boom

Phosphate mining began in Nauru in the early 20th century, and by the mid-1900s, it was the island’s main source of revenue. Nauru experienced significant wealth due to the phosphate trade, and the country enjoyed one of the highest per capita incomes in the world during its peak. However, the rapid depletion of phosphate resources in the latter half of the 20th century led to economic decline and environmental degradation.

Independence and Political Struggles

Nauru gained its independence from Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom in 1968. The country faced political instability in the following decades, with frequent changes in leadership and conflicts over the use of phosphate revenue. Nauru’s government made efforts to diversify the economy through ventures such as offshore banking and the establishment of a regional immigration detention center, but the country continues to struggle with economic challenges related to the depletion of phosphate resources and limited natural assets.

Recent History and Challenges

In recent years, Nauru has faced significant challenges, including economic instability, political corruption, and environmental degradation caused by phosphate mining. The country has been heavily dependent on foreign aid, and its small population and limited infrastructure have hindered its ability to develop sustainable economic systems. Nauru’s reliance on Australia for financial and political support, particularly in terms of hosting refugee detention centers, has also shaped its international relationships. Despite these challenges, Nauru remains a sovereign nation with a unique cultural identity and a resilient population.

Nauru Map