Despite the very small population, the government structure is a complex arrangement largely following the Westminster system. It has a unicameral parliament and its own Judiciary and Supreme Court. Nauru is governed by a popularly elected 18 member unicameral parliament. The parliament then elects a President who is both leader of the government and Head of State. A cabinet of 5 members is then chosen by the president to assist in the process of government. The Nauru Local Council (NIC) administers local governance and also advises the national government on local matters.

All Nauruans have some rights over all the land of the island, which is owned by individuals and families; governments, entities and foreigners cannot own land. Land may be leased for access of use.