World’s Smallest Island Country

Nauru is the smallest island nation in the world by land area (just 21 square kilometers) and the third-smallest country by population, after Vatican City and Tuvalu.

No Official Capital City

Nauru is one of the few countries without an official capital. However, Yaren District serves as the de facto administrative center.

Once the Richest Country Per Capita

In the 1970s and 1980s, Nauru was briefly the richest country per capita in the world, thanks to its vast phosphate deposits.

Phosphate Boom and Bust

Nauru's economy was heavily dependent on phosphate mining, but over-extraction led to economic collapse and severe environmental degradation.

No Armed Forces

Nauru has no military, and its defense is provided by Australia, with which it has close ties.

Only One Major Road

The country has a single main road that circles the entire island, about 19 kilometers long, offering a scenic drive around the coast.

High Obesity Rates

Nauru has one of the highest obesity and diabetes rates in the world, due in part to limited access to fresh food and a diet high in processed imports.

Two Official Languages

Nauruan is the native language, but English is also an official language, widely used in education and government.

Climate Challenges

Being a low-lying island, Nauru is highly vulnerable to climate change and rising sea levels, with limited natural freshwater sources.

Unique Culture and Identity

Despite its small size, Nauruans maintain a strong sense of community and cultural identity, with traditional song, dance, and storytelling playing an important role.