Nauru is offering citizenship for $105,000 to help fund relocation due to climate threats. The initiative aims to raise over $5.6 million in its first year, emphasizing careful implementation to avoid exploitation. Similar programs exist in other nations like Dominica, which targets climate resilience efforts through citizenship-by-investment.
Nauru, a small island nation in the Pacific, is offering citizenship for $105,000 (over Rs 91.44 lakh) to address the climate crisis. Through its “golden passport” scheme, it aims to raise funds to relocate its 12,500 citizens to safer, higher ground as sea levels continue to rise. The nation spans just 20 square kilometers and faces significant threats from coastal erosion and storm surges.
President David Adeang emphasized the urgency of the situation, asserting, “While the world debates climate action, we must take proactive steps to secure our nation’s future.” In line with this, the government will exclude individuals with criminal records from acquiring citizenship to prevent potential exploitation of the scheme.
This is not Nauru’s first attempt to implement a passport program; previous initiatives faced challenges, including scandals involving alleged terrorists. Kirstin Surak, an expert on global mobility, noted that such initiatives enable individuals to lead “global lives,” particularly benefiting those from countries with restrictive travel access.
The current plan provides visa-free access to 89 countries, including the UK, Hong Kong, and the UAE. By implementing this program, the Nauruan government projects to generate over $5.6 million in the first year, potentially increasing to $42 million annually, contributing to nearly 19% of total government revenue.
The government is cautiously assessing the scheme’s implementation to avoid unintended consequences. The CEO of the Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program stated they are committed to evaluating any negative impacts.
Other nations, like Dominica in the Caribbean, are similarly exploring citizenship-by-investment programs to support climate resilience efforts. Dominica’s initiative, ongoing since 1993, aims to make it the world’s first climate-resilient nation by 2030.
Nauru’s citizenship program highlights the increasing necessity for innovative solutions to combat climate change. With its risks and potential benefits, the government aims to secure a sustainable future for its citizens. The emphasis on careful implementation and exclusion of individuals with criminal backgrounds showcases a commitment to addressing both environmental and security concerns. As other countries follow suit, the global approach toward climate resilience is evolving.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
