Nauru
The tiny Pacific island nation of Nauru has been unable to contact the outside world since January, when its phone system broke down. Nauru, a nation of 12,000 inhabitants, was once a source of profitable phosphate mining. After the mines shut down, the island reinvented itself as a center for offshore banking—and, financial investigators say, for money laundering. Riots broke out after January elections, when former president Rene Harris refused to cede power to the winner, Bernard Dowiyogo. Many buildings burned down, including the telephone center and the presidential palace. Nauru’s diplomats abroad, cut off from their government, have no idea who is now in charge.
The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
The struggles of Aston MartinIn the Spotlight The car manufacturer, famous for its association with the James Bond franchise, is ‘running out of road’
-
The end of ‘golden ticket’ asylum rightsThe Explainer Refugees lose automatic right to bring family over and must ‘earn’ indefinite right to remain
-
Grecotel Luxme Dama Dama: Greek luxury with a breezy beach vibeThe Week Recommends Rhodes is reimagined in this refined and relaxed resort
