By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Country name changes are more than just re-branding. They often reflect deeper shifts: identity, politics, colonial legacies, diplomacy or branding for global affairs.
In each of these cases we see a nation saying: “This is who we are — and how we wish to be known.”
Below are five countries that have recently gone through this process, with what changed and why:
1. Türkiye (formerly Turkey)
In 2022, the government officially adopted Türkiye as the country’s recognised name.
The change aimed to strengthen national identity and highlight the nation’s heritage.
It also sought to distinguish the country’s image from the English word “turkey”, commonly associated with the bird.
The United Nations later approved the request, making Türkiye the nation’s official name in international use.
2. Republic of North Macedonia (formerly Republic of Macedonia)
In 2019, Macedonia changed its name to North Macedonia following a long-standing dispute with Greece, which objected to the old name on historical and territorial grounds.
The compromise resolved years of diplomatic tension and paved the way for North Macedonia’s membership in NATO, as well as progress toward joining the European Union.
3. Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland)
In 2018, King Mswati III announced that Swaziland would revert to its pre-colonial name Eswatini, meaning “Land of the Swazis.”
The decision marked the country’s desire to reclaim its traditional identity and eliminate confusion with Switzerland in global affairs.
It also symbolised a step away from its colonial legacy under British rule.
4. Czechia (formerly Czech Republic)
The government of the Czech Republic approved the shorter name Czechia in 2016 to simplify international communication and branding.
While “Czech Republic” remains valid in formal contexts, “Czechia” is now used for sports, business, and cultural representation.
The aim was to create a concise and recognisable identity similar to other one-word country names like Austria or Slovakia.
5. Cabo Verde (formerly Cape Verde)
In 2013, the island nation of Cape Verde officially requested to be known as Cabo Verde in all international settings.
The change reaffirmed the country’s Portuguese linguistic and cultural roots, promoting consistency in how its name appears across languages and global institutions.
Cabo Verde’s decision reflected national pride and a desire for uniform international recognition.