Universal Citizenship
When considering refugees or illegal migrants, various scenarios may come to mind, such as individuals from Asia or Africa attempting risky journeys to Europe or America, or people displaced by conflict or famine, like those in Darfur or Palestine. These individuals are often forced to seek refuge in their own or neighboring countries.
While many states advocate for universal and inclusive citizenship, each imposes criteria for citizenship, typically outlined in their constitutions and laws. Despite efforts to restrict migration, significant movement of people still occurs worldwide due to factors like war, persecution, and famine. Those unable to find refuge become stateless or live as illegal migrants, facing limitations on work, education, and property ownership.
Decisions on accepting refugees pose complex humanitarian and political challenges for states. India, for instance, has a history of providing refuge to persecuted groups like the Dalai Lama’s followers. However, many refugees remain stateless for generations, challenging the notion of universal citizenship. Stateless individuals face severe consequences, including loss of homes and security, due to border disputes or conflicts.
The issue of stateless people raises questions about whether citizenship can adequately address their plight or if alternative global identities, such as global citizenship, should be explored. These possibilities will be further discussed in the next section.
Citizenship Chapter 6 Class 11 Polity Notes
“Citizenship” is something we frequently hear but, what does it mean? A person’s relationship with a state, to which they owe allegiance and are therefore legally protected, is known as citizenship. Being a citizen comes with obligations in addition to rights. The Indian Constitution’s Articles 5 through 11 deal with Indian citizenship. In this blog, we will explore the idea of citizenship in learning about its importance and its rights and obligations.
Citizenship Chapter 6 Class 11 Polity Notes