As sea levels begin to rise, the island nation of Kiribati is at risk of being swallowed up by the engulfing waves of the Pacific Ocean. In just 30-40 years, Kiribati could disappear entirely. The Kiribati people are not giving up hope and are doing everything they can to save their beautiful and charming homeland from inundation. But can their efforts be enough?
The documentary “Vanishing Nation” follows the Kiribati people as they confront the devastating reality of their island home’s impending disappearance due to climate change. A resident of Kiribati named Kaboua speaks to the transforming landscape, “There used to be a large village here with 70 families. But these days, this land is only accessible at low tide. At high tide, it’s all under water.” Faced with such an uncertain future, the Kiribati people’s determination is nothing short of inspiring, considering they have built walls made of stone, driftwood, sand, and rubbish to protect against the increasing number of storm surges. But will these barriers withstand the coming tide, or will the Kiribati people be forced to evacuate their homeland?
