Republic of Naoero: a Pacific microstate shifting names and alliances
Australia and Fiji have formalised new defence arrangements aimed at countering China’s influence in the Pacific. The Ocean of Peace Alliance and the Vuvale Union strengthen regional security commitments, with Australia pledging over a billion dollars in funding over the next decade to support security, development, and regional stability.
China has test‑launched a long‑range ballistic missile from a nuclear submarine into the South Pacific carrying a dummy warhead. Beijing has said the launch was routine and that relevant countries were notified; Australia, New Zealand, Japan and Pacific states have condemned the test as destabilising and said notice was insufficient.
The 1951 Refugee Convention has shaped protections for millions, but fragmentation is rising amid record displacement. EU dialogue, U.S. policy shifts, and new consultations aim to reform protection by 2027.
Nauru has changed its international code to NRO and will call its people dei-Naoero, returning to its traditional name. The government says the shift honors heritage, language and identity, with a public vote deemed unnecessary after extensive discussions. The UN and several regional actors now refer to the country as Naoero.