cnn.com
Birthright Citizenship: A Global Perspective
President Trump's executive order to end birthright citizenship in the US sparked debate; while the US is not alone in practicing jus soli, many countries, particularly in the Americas, have it while many others do not.
- Why did some post-colonial nations in Asia and Africa choose jus sanguinis over jus soli?
- The prevalence of birthright citizenship in the Americas stems from British colonial practices and a need to increase populations in newly established countries. In contrast, many post-colonial nations in Asia and Africa adopted jus sanguinis (right of blood) to establish distinct national identities and reject colonial influence. This divergence highlights the role of historical context and political motivations in shaping citizenship laws.
- What are the potential future implications of ongoing debates about birthright citizenship in the US and other countries?
- Future challenges to birthright citizenship in the US, similar to those in Europe, could focus on concerns about immigration. The shift away from jus soli (right of soil) in many countries illustrates the evolving nature of citizenship policies in response to changing societal needs and concerns regarding immigration.
- What are the historical origins of birthright citizenship, and how does the US practice compare to that of other countries?
- President Trump's executive order aimed to end birthright citizenship, a principle he incorrectly claimed was unique to the US. Over 30 countries, primarily in the Americas, grant birthright citizenship, according to the Law Library of Congress. This policy's origins trace back to British colonial law and were adopted for economic and nation-building reasons in various regions.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a relatively neutral framing, although the focus on the historical evolution of birthright citizenship in the Americas, and the inclusion of President Trump's statement in the introduction, might subtly emphasize the American context. However, it balances this by exploring the global variations in citizenship laws.
Bias by Omission
The article accurately presents the historical context of birthright citizenship, but it could benefit from mentioning specific examples of countries that have restricted or abolished jus soli in recent decades beyond the UK, and how those changes were justified. Including such examples would provide a more comprehensive picture of global trends.
Sustainable Development Goals
The executive order disproportionately affects children of undocumented immigrants, potentially exacerbating existing inequalities and hindering their access to opportunities. The order challenges birthright citizenship, a principle that has historically offered a pathway to upward mobility for marginalized groups.