Vanuatu May Revoke Andrew Tate's Citizenship Amid Legal Troubles

Authorities in Vanuatu are reviewing Andrew Tate's citizenship due to his troubling legal history and the implications of citizenship-for-sale schemes.

Vanuatu is currently examining the possibility of withdrawing Andrew Tate's citizenship, commonly referred to as a "golden passport," which he received under a fast-track scheme designed for investors contributing a minimum of $130,000 to the nation. This scrutiny follows revelations surrounding Tate's arrest in Romania in 2022 on charges of rape and human trafficking.

The investigation into Tate's citizenship comes from the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), emphasizing rising security concerns linked to the passport scheme. It also prompted the European Union to rescind Vanuatu's visa-free privileges earlier in 2024. Kiery Manassah, a spokesman for the Vanuatu government, stated, “The government does not want to encourage people of questionable backgrounds to be granted citizenship.” He assured that procedures to revoke this citizenship would be enacted once the necessary information is gathered.

Citizenship by investment programs like Vanuatu’s have been lucrative but problematic, often exploited by individuals involved with organized crime or seeking to escape legal repercussions. Aubrey Belford, an editor for OCCRP, labeled it a "loophole" that enables individuals to evade law enforcement, triggering concern within the region.

Tate was awarded Vanuatu citizenship in December 2022, coinciding with events surrounding his arrest alongside his brother, Tristan Tate, in Romania. Since then, they have remained under significant travel restrictions, with Vanuatu lacking a formal extradition treaty with Romania. It remains uncertain whether Tristan Tate obtained similar citizenship status.

Andrew Tate has garnered attention for his controversial online persona, amassing over 10 million followers on social media platforms, where he openly declares himself a misogynist. However, allegations have continued to emerge regarding his treatment of women and the broader impact his rhetoric has had on societal views on gender. The Tate brothers, originally from the U.S. and later residing in the UK, continue to contest charges brought against them, including serious accusations filed in 2024 related to actions occurring from 2012 to 2015. A Romanian court has opened the door for their potential extradition once legal proceedings conclude.