On Citizenship Essay Example

without considering parental nationality.

The right to possess dual citizenship is one of the rights individuals have. Citizenship and nationality are closely related concepts but approached differently from a national perspective. Citizenship is granted based on loyalty to the state or nation where one resides, while nationality expresses allegiance to national identity and encompasses efforts for self-determination, ethnicity, and cultural connections made by member nations.

The concept of Nationalization originated from the establishment of centralized administrations, defined borders, delimited populations, and a system of interstate relations that recognized integrity and sovereignty (Held 1996: 36-37). Citizenship comprises various aspects, referred to as elements by Marshall, which are defined in relation to the rights applied through social institutions (Turner 1993: 37). Marshall identifies three sets of elements: civil, political, and social rights.

The civil element, supported by law and courts, includes the rights essential for personal freedom. The political element encompasses the right to engage in all political activities, such as voting and electing. The social element involves the rights to enhance one's standard of living and protect social heritage. These rights are realized through social services and education (Turner 1993: 37).

In the 21st century, the concept of citizenship has undergone a redefinition, with an increased emphasis on the importance of having a sense of identity (Cogan & Derricott 1993: 3). While national identity used to be prioritized in the past, many countries now recognize and embrace multicultural identities as part of being a citizen. Having a sense of identity fosters feelings of patriotism while also acknowledging the significance of "rights and entitlements" that come with citizenship. Individuals who belong to a

group, society, or nation are entitled to specific rights.

The rights and responsibilities of citizens, which have been a controversial issue leading to conflicts, are protected by the laws of the state or those outlined in the constitution. Being a citizen also involves fulfilling obligations such as obeying the law, paying taxes, and showing respect for others.

The responsibilities also include a fourth component, which is actively participating in public affairs. As stated, "With citizenship rights and duties, involvement in public affairs is not a matter of blind obedience, but rather of thoughtful consideration and discussion" (Cogan & Derricott 1993: 4). The fifth component involves integrating societal values into one's own character. These values can be explicitly or implicitly prescribed, and may include faith, cooperation, respect for others, and nonviolence, among others. All of the aforementioned components encompass the rights of citizens.

The unclear definition of rights often leads to ongoing conflict among citizens. Political theorists and philosophers are currently studying the concept of citizenship with great interest. Some scholars examine the historical development of citizenship in its present context, while others adopt a broader approach to investigate how societies can evolve and democratic institutions can be enhanced to promote greater citizen involvement.

The concept of global citizenship involves individuals acknowledging themselves as part of the international community and applying the principles of citizenship on a global scale. Organizations such as the League of Nations and the United Nations have supported this idea. Kant also emphasized the importance of international relationships, suggesting that those who harm or impact others should establish an international civil constitution and strive for a "cosmopolitan

condition of general political security." Global citizenship entails addressing inequality both locally and globally, fostering unity among a worldwide audience. The idealist school of thought proposes incorporating citizenship into foreign policies, where European powers treat individuals from non-European backgrounds with respect and dignity to maintain peace and order worldwide. However, concerns about national belongingness, nationality, and nationhood arise due to the increase in transnational migration. For instance, when Latvia and other Baltic states joined the European Union in May 2004, there were worries about European identity and cultural heritage because people started moving to other countries. Sister Vitolia Mo’a, Faith & Society Programme Coordinator at ECREA, highlighted significant divisions within Fijian society regarding aspects like identity and belongingness.

The question of who belongs in Fiji and how one belongs can provoke strong ethno-centric emotions among Indigenous Fijians and a sense of perpetual displacement among other ethnic groups, especially Indo-Fijians. Interestingly, the people of Fiji do not even have a specific name to identify themselves. Migrated refugees or displaced individuals in unfamiliar territories often feel alienated from the local culture and societal practices.

International or intercontinental citizenship has fostered global unity and a sense of belonging, while also leading to cultural and societal disconnection. Both citizenship and nationality promote harmony at both national and international levels, thereby contributing to the advancement of development and peace.