Facing the unstoppable advance of the Pacific Ocean, the tiny island nation of Nauru has decided to sell “golden passports” to foreign citizens as a strategy to finance its fight against climate change.
According to its president, David Adeang, this measure aims to ensure a sustainable future for the island and its inhabitants.
Nauru, with only 13,000 residents, is facing a growing threat from rising sea levels, which are already devouring its fertile lands.
In response, the government plans to relocate up to 90% of its population inland, a project that will be funded through the sale of passports priced at $105,000.
Despite criticism pointing out that these programs can be used by criminal networks, the country defends this financing initiative as a key solution in the fight against climate change.
“This measure is not just a matter of adaptation, but of ensuring a prosperous and lasting future for future generations,” emphasized Adeang.
A Controversial Yet Necessary Funding Model
Nauru, a small enclave located in the South Pacific, is known for its unique geography, settled on a plateau of phosphate rock. With only 21 square kilometers, this nation stands as one of the smallest on the planet.
In the past, its wealth derived from phosphate mining raised its GDP per capita, but also rendered 80% of its lands uninhabitable. Now, the rest of its territory is in peril due to the rising sea levels, advancing 1.5 times faster than the global average.
Edward Clark, in charge of the Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program, stated that existing funds to combat climate change are not sufficient to face such large challenges.
According to his estimates, the program could raise $5.7 million in its first year and reach a total of $43 million, which would represent 20% of national income. This money will be mostly allocated to the first phase of the relocation project, with a cost of $60 million.
Risks and Background of Passport Sales
The Nauru passport allows visa-free entry to 89 countries, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, United Arab Emirates, Peru, and Ecuador.
The government describes the program as an “innovation.” However, experts like Henrietta McNeill from the Australian National University warn that such initiatives can be used for illegal purposes.
Nauru has previous experience in this field. In 2003, a similar program allowed the sale of passports to Al Qaeda members, who were later arrested.
Now, authorities ensure that citizenship will only be granted to investors who comply with strict security checks. “This program is not just about obtaining a passport, but about being part of a community seeking innovative solutions to global challenges,” concluded Clark.
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