Nauru Adopts Traditional Name Republic of Naoero

The Pacific island country long known internationally as Nauru has adopted the name Republic of Naoero, aligning its official designation with the spelling and pronunciation used in the national language.

President David Adeang said the change restores the country’s traditional name and reflects its heritage and identity. Lawmakers endorsed the designation in two rounds of voting, and the government said a referendum was not required because Naoero is already used by its people and appears on the national coat of arms.

The country’s international code is expected to change from NRU to NRO, while its citizens will be described as dei-Naoero. The government is seeking recognition of the change from other countries and international institutions; the United Nations already records the country under its new name.

The island, home to about 12,000 people, was colonised by Germany and later administered by Australia before gaining independence in 1968. Officials presented the change as a step toward renewed national pride and away from a name adopted internationally for outsiders’ convenience.