That’s something no one imagined decades ago. The perfect postcard island nation is now zero on the ground due to climate change.
Located in the South Pacific, the country, with only 11,000 people, is preparing to do things they have never done before.
reason? The average elevation is 2 meters above sea level and is gone. Slowly, steadily, and heartbreaking. According to NASA, sea levels have already risen by 15 centimeters over the past 30 years, and by 2050 most of the country could be underwater.
Tubal citizens have moved to Australia
However, Tuvalu, one of the smallest countries in the world, is not proceeding quietly.
In 2023, it signed the world’s first Climate Migration Treaty with Australia. Under this treaty, it is called House of Representatives280 Tubalans per year can be permanently moved to Australia with full residency rights!
And people responded quickly. Over 3,000 Tubal people took part in the polls in the first four days alone. By July 11th, that number had jumped to 5,157, which had almost half the country.
The program, as officials say, provides “dignified mobility” and also prevents chaotic departures. Of course, Tuvaluans don’t want to leave their country. But they are forced.
Historic transition. Is Kilibati next?
“This opportunity to work, live and nurture Australia is a dream. Climate change affects our global position and, most surprisingly, our future as a nation,” said one migrant.
The next step in these immigration is historic. They must protect the cultures of countries overseas. In fact, Tuvalu is building a digital twin. It is a complete 3D recreation of its land, institution and identity.
In a virtual world, Tubal never sinks. But digital technology maintains culture, but does not evacuate people. And the time is running out.
The relocation of Tuvalu has already stimulated global consultations. Australia is considering similar transactions to Kiliberty and other vulnerable countries. Experts call this the first true case of “climate citizenship.”
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