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Tiny Tokelau May Soon Become Nation

By Islomaniac | October 19, 2007

Tokelau Tokelau’s small population will soon be heading to the polls to determine whether or not their tiny Pacific territory will become one of the world’s smallest independent territories. It is the second time in two years that the islands residents have voted on independence. A two-thirds majority is needed for change and it could prove to be a battle as many of the islands residents fear losing the £3.5 million annual grant from Wellington. Nonetheless, advocates of independence have been touting the benefits of independence, such as licensing their internet domain name “dot TK.” New Zealand has stated that they will continue their aid to the country if they vote for independence.  If Tokelau becomes an independent state, its population of little more that 1,500 will make it the the worlds smallest country by population, except for the Vatican City.  The biggest concern surrounding Tokelau’s independence is that it my be short lived.  Scientists are predicting low lying atolls such as Tokelau could could disappear beneath rising seas within as little as 20 years.  The results of the election will become available on October 25.

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Topics: Islands and Politics |

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