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Nauru Officially Changes Name to Naoero 'After Thoughtful Deliberation', Bypassing Referendum
The government said the change follows a unanimous parliamentary vote and updates the country’s official designation, code and demonym.
The Pacific island nation of Nauru officially reclaimed its traditional name, becoming the Republic of Naoero, after parliament passed a constitutional amendment in May.
European colonizers changed the country's name to Nauru after finding 'Naoero' difficult to pronounce, while President David Adeang dropped referendum plans on Wednesday.
Following a 90-day layover and unanimous parliamentary vote, Speaker Marcus Stephen certified the amendment on May 13; international organizations notified citizens will be referred to as 'dei-Naoero' with country code NRO.
Adeang described the renaming as an effort to preserve 'the legacy of our ancestors' while strengthening 'the future of our children,' noting the name already appears on the national coat of arms.
The Nauruan language, known locally as dorerin Naoero, is classified by UNESCO as 'severely endangered,' though a government bill passed last year will incorporate it into the school curriculum.