Pacific nation of Nauru wants to change its name as it moves on from colonial past
The Pacific nation of Nauru is holding a referendum to officially change its name to 'Naoero' to better reflect its Indigenous heritage. The move follows a parliamentary vote to move away from colonial-era naming conventions.
Why it matters
Reflects a growing global trend of post-colonial nations reclaiming indigenous identities and names.
After Nauru’s parliament passed the proposal about changing its name, a referendum for the island’s 11,000 people will be held to decide whether to make the change official. Photograph: Jason Oxenham/AP View image in fullscreen After Nauru’s parliament passed the proposal about changing its name, a referendum for the island’s 11,000 people will be held to decide whether to make the change official. Photograph: Jason Oxenham/AP Nauru Pacific nation of Nauru wants to change its name as it moves on from colonial past Island may soon be called Naoero – an Indigenous name that honours the country’s heritage and identity
Neutral coverage of a cultural and political shift in a sovereign nation.
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