Matriarchy

It can be considered as one of Unique Cultural Characteristics In Nauru. All Nauruans are members of a matrilineal group or clan. In a public document, each birth and death is identified by clan affiliation. That affiliation lasts the lifetime of the individual and is not altered by marriage. A marriage partner must be chosen from a different clan. Marriage is largely a Christian institution today, though there are concerns that some young people are choosing not to marry; their children are descended from the mother's lineage. Households revolve around the mother, who cares for and is cared for by her children.

The male is the nominal head of the household, but the mother is the decision-making head, and she is primarily responsible for economic management as well as social care. Both sons and daughters inherit land and other properties, but only daughters can pass on their rights to their children without seeking extended family consent. Modern possessions, such as motorcycles, are passed down through extended families. Every Nauruan is assigned to a district. That affiliation is inherited from one's mother or father, but it can be changed during one's lifetime for political reasons. Participation in district activities is a requirement of district affiliation.