Pacific Microstate Wants to Sell Passports to Fund Climate Action

A remote Pacific island country plans to sell its passports to fund climate action, but is struggling to attract new citizens.

The microstate of Nauru, one of the smallest countries in the world, covering 21 square kilometers, began selling "golden passports" six months ago as a way to finance the fight against climate change.

At a value of $105,000 (574,000 reais) each, Nauru hopes to raise more than $5 million (27.3 million reais) in the first year of the “climate resilience citizenship” program.

Since the plan's inception, however, Nauru has approved only six applications, including two families and four individuals.

Despite the slow start, Nauru believes it will be able to sell 66 passports in the first year of the program and President David Adeang is optimistic.

"We welcome our new citizens, whose investment will help Nauru secure a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come," Adeang told AFP.

The country expects the program to generate a total of $43 million (234 million reais), with nearly 500 successful applications.

But there are concerns that the program could be abused. Edward Clark, director of the climate passport program, said an application was withdrawn after officials reported "adverse findings" in a background review.

The Nauru passport provides visa-free entry to over 80 countries.

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