Nauru 🇳🇷

Country Profile

Capital: No official capital, government office located in Yaren district

Languages: Nauruan and English

Population: 10, 834 (2020)

GDP: $ USD 133 million (2021)

Country code: +674

Electricity: Type I socket 240 supply voltage and 50 hertz.

The same plugs are used as in Australia and New Zealand.

Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)

Most large stores accept Visa and Mastercards. However, it is advised to travel with cash for smaller purchases, including at convenience stores or smaller vendors.

Use the map 🗺 to explore Nauru!

Use the map 🗺 to explore Nauru!

 

Geography: Nauru, officially known as the Republic of Nauru, is a tiny island country located in the Pacific Ocean, northeast of Australia. It is one of the world's smallest independent nations, covering just over 21 square kilometers. Nauru is a raised coral atoll with a central plateau surrounded by a narrow coastal strip. The island's terrain is primarily made up of phosphate deposits, remnants of extensive mining operations.

History: Nauru has a unique history dating back thousands of years when it was inhabited by Micronesian and Polynesian settlers. European contact began in the late 18th century, leading to colonization by Germany, Britain, and Australia. Phosphate mining, which started in the late 19th century, heavily impacted the island's landscape and economy. Nauru gained independence from Australia in 1968, becoming the world's smallest independent republic.

Economy: Nauru's economy has historically been heavily reliant on phosphate mining, which has led to environmental degradation and limited sustainable development. Efforts have been made to diversify the economy, with a focus on offshore banking, fishing, and limited tourism. However, economic challenges persist, including dependence on foreign aid and the need for infrastructure development.

Government: Nauru is a parliamentary republic with a system of representative democracy. The President serves as both the head of state and government, and is elected by the Parliament of Nauru. The parliament is unicameral and consists of 19 members elected to serve three-year terms. Political stability has been a challenge in Nauru, with frequent changes in government leadership.

Society: Nauruan society is closely-knit, with a strong emphasis on community and family ties. Traditional customs and cultural practices, including storytelling, dance, and music, play an important role in daily life. The population is predominantly of Nauruan and mixed Nauruan-European descent, with a diverse range of languages and cultural influences.

Religion: Christianity is the predominant religion in Nauru, with the majority of the population adhering to Protestant denominations, particularly the Nauru Congregational Church. Other Christian denominations, including Roman Catholicism and Seventh-day Adventism, are also present. Religion plays a significant role in Nauruan society, influencing social customs, holidays, and moral values.

Culture: Nauruan culture is a blend of indigenous traditions and influences from European and Pacific cultures. Traditional Nauruan crafts, such as weaving and pottery, are still practiced, alongside modern art forms. Music and dance are integral to Nauruan cultural expression, with performances often featuring traditional instruments and costumes. Cuisine in Nauru is influenced by local ingredients, with seafood and coconut commonly featured in dishes.

Language: Nauruan and English are the official languages of Nauru. Nauruan, a Micronesian language, is spoken by the majority of the population, while English is used in government, education, and business contexts. The preservation of the Nauruan language and cultural heritage is a priority for the government and local communities.

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