The constitutional amendment proposal to officially rename Nauru to Naoero has received unanimous support from Parliament, marking a significant step in recognising the nation's cultural identity and heritage.
The Constitution (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill 2026 was first introduced by President David Adeang on 29 January 2026.
After completing the required 90-day layover period, the bill returned to the order paper for debate and voting. On May 12 all 16 Members of Parliament present voted in favour of the amendment.
In his second reading speech on 29 January this year, President Adeang said the proposed change was about restoring and honouring the nation's heritage.
If ultimately approved through the constitutional process, the name Naoero would be reflected across official national records, symbols, and international representation including at the United Nations.
The proposal will now proceed to a national referendum, which is required to complete the constitutional amendment process.
President Adeang said the change from Naoero was not one made by Nauruans themselves, but rather by outsiders.
The island was also briefly referred to internationally as Pleasant Island after British captain John Fearn became the first recorded European to sight the island in 1798, naming it for its appearance from the sea.
This week's parliamentary approval marks a significant milestone in the effort to formally restore the nation's traditional name and strengthen recognition of Nauruan culture, language, and identity.
