Nauru is offering citizenship for $105,000 as part of a ‘golden passport’ initiative to combat climate change. This program aims to raise funds to relocate its citizens due to rising sea levels and coastal erosion. Strict regulations are in place to prevent exploitation, with expected revenue significantly contributing to government finances.
Nauru, a diminutive island nation in the Pacific, is introducing a citizenship program priced at $105,000 (approximately Rs 91.44 lakh) per passport to combat climate change. Known as a “golden passport” scheme, this initiative seeks to financially support the relocation of Nauru’s 12,500 citizens as rising sea levels threaten the island’s survival.
Covering a mere 20 square kilometers, Nauru faces severe challenges such as rising sea levels, storm surges, and coastal erosion. Prompt action is required to secure the future of the inhabitants.
Nauru’s President, David Adeang, emphasized the need for proactive measures, stating, “While the world debates climate action, we must take proactive steps to secure our nation’s future.” To mitigate the risk of exploitation, the government has stipulated that individuals with criminal records will be ineligible for this citizenship opportunity.
The Nauru government previously experienced issues with passport programs, exemplified by a scandal involving two alleged Al Qaeda members arrested in Malaysia in 2003 while holding Nauru passports. Kirstin Surak, a political sociology associate professor at the London School of Economics, commented on the advantages of such initiatives for facilitating global mobility, particularly for those burdened by restrictive passports.
The new citizenship program provides holders with visa-free access to 89 countries, including prominent destinations like the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates. The government anticipates generating over $5.6 million in its first year, with projections of up to $42 million annually, which could represent 19% of total government revenue.
As this initiative progresses, the government is taking a cautious approach to its implementation. The CEO of the Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program noted, “as we assess for any unintended consequences or negative impact.” Nauru joins other nations, like Dominica, which has operated a citizenship-by-investment program since 1993 to support its climate resilience goals.
In summary, Nauru’s introduction of a citizenship program reflects an innovative response to the existential threat posed by climate change. The scheme aims to generate substantial revenue for relocating its citizens while ensuring stricter regulations to prevent misuse. By investing in citizenship, Nauru hopes to secure its future and contribute to broader global efforts aimed at climate resilience.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
