More people across the globe are seeking a dual citizenship back-up plan as the global security situation deteriorates and they are faced with the prospect of war in their home countries, according to the head of Nauru’s Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program.
CEO Edward Clark said the Middle East conflict which is spreading to more countries, and the continuing war in Ukraine which has also recently escalated, have left many families feeling increasingly uncertain about their security, mobility, and long-term options.
He revealed immigration agents are reporting a surge of inquiries for citizenship by investment (CBI), with many looking beyond traditional countries to those with a politically neutral passport like Nauru.
“Fear and uncertainty for their families are driving people who have never considered a second citizenship to seek out options,” he said.
“A second passport may make it easier to get out of their home country in the event of war, and provide a safe place to stay without having to leave after a short period.
“Many others are also concerned about mandatory military conscription should their country go to war.”
Mr Clark said another key attraction was the increased freedom to travel on a passport “without political negativity”.
“In today’s polarising geopolitical world, having a secondary, safer passport to travel on can mitigate security threats due to political or religious views.”
Recent applicants for the Nauru program have included US, European, and Middle Eastern citizens, some who cited the political neutrality of the Pacific region as a key factor for their decision.
While a primary motivation for a second citizenship is to have a safety “insurance policy”, he said the tipping point to choose Nauru’s program was the opportunity to contribute to the country’s economic and climate resilience.
The UN has identified Nauru as the world’s 5th most vulnerable nation to climate and economic shocks.
Launched in 2025, the Nauru program offers visa-free travel to 85 countries, including Hong Kong, Singapore, and countries in many parts of the world that are distant to conflict areas, and is considered the most “family friendly” CBI program in the world.
However Mr Clark, a financial crime and compliance expert, said access was not automatic due to the program’s strict due diligence requirements.
“The comprehensive financial, police, and third-party checks underpin the integrity of the Nauru program, and these are strong value propositions for many people.
“Amid all the global uncertainty, people want to be assured they are investing in a robust program with safeguards for them and their family.”
Edward Clark has an extensive background in international compliance and financial crime investigation and is the current chief executive officer of the Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Program. The Program is independent of the Nauru Government and maintains strict compliance to the Financial Action Task Force standards.
About the Nauru Economic & Climate Resilience Citizenship Program
The Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program is designed to attract investors who are committed to contributing to the sustainable development of the Pacific island nation of Nauru. By participating in this program, applicants can secure a second citizenship while supporting the island's efforts to combat climate change and enhance economic resilience.