The sea is engulfing the first country that has to relocate its entire population

It’s a fact that no one could have imagined just a few years ago: an island nation with a picture-perfect landscape is now the epicenter of climate change.

The South Pacific country with only 11,000 inhabitants is planning to do something that no other country has ever done: relocate its people before oceans swallow the land.

Why? Tuvalu is disappearing. Slowly, steadily, heartbreakingly. NASA says that the sea level has already risen by 15 cm in the last 30 years. And, by 2050 most of the nation could be under water.

Tuvaluans moving to Australia

Tuvalu, a tiny nation in the Pacific, is not going down quietly.

The first ever climate migration agreement with Australia was signed in 2023. This treaty is called the Falepili UnionTuvaluans can move permanently to Australia each year with full residency rights.

The response was swift. Over 3,000 Tuvaluans voted in the first four days. By July 11th, the number of voters had risen to 5,157. This is nearly half of the population.

Officials say that the program offers “mobility in dignity” and prevents an exodus. Tuvaluans are not eager to leave the country. They’re forced to leave.

A historical migration Is Kiribati next?

This opportunity to live, work and raise a family in Australia is an incredible dream. Climate change has a profound impact on our world status and, most alarmingly of all, our future.

These migrants’ next step is historic: They must protect the culture of their home country abroad. Tuvalu even has a digital twin, a 3D recreation its land, institutions and identity.

Tuvalu might never sink in a virtual world. Digital technology may preserve culture but it will not protect people. Time is running out.

Tuvalu’s relocation has already sparked global discussions. Australia is considering similar agreements with Kiribati as well as other vulnerable nations. This is the first real case of “climate citizenry” according to experts.

More world news here.