GNS 111

Olowoaro Jonathan Ohunoluwa

P/ND/23/3440139
Presentation: citizenship and mode of acquiring citizenship

05 November 2024

Presentation Speech on Citizenship and Modes of

Acquiring Citizenship

Good [morning/afternoon/evening] sir

Citizenship is more than just a legal status; it embodies the relationship between an
individual and a nation, as well as the rights, duties, and privileges associated with that
relationship. In our interconnected world, citizenship continues to evolve, shaping how we
participate in the communities around us and, ultimately, in the global community. Today,
we will explore what citizenship truly means and delve into the various ways it can be
acquired.

○ Understanding Citizenship

Let us begin by exploring the fundamental meaning of citizenship. In essence, citizenship is

the status of being recognized as a legal member of a nation, with both the rights and
obligations that come with this recognition. This concept dates back to ancient civilizations
like Greece and Rome, where being a citizen came with a sense of responsibility and loyalty
to one’s city-state. Over time, the idea of citizenship has transformed from a mere privilege
to a fundamental human right recognized by international organizations, such as the
United Nations.

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Citizenship embodies a sense of belonging. It is what grants us the right to vote, to work, to
access social services, and to participate in public life. In exchange, we are expected to
uphold certain responsibilities, like obeying the laws, paying taxes, and contributing to the
common good. In many ways, citizenship is the foundation for a healthy and thriving
society, as it reinforces our shared values, cultures, and principles.

○ Modes of Acquiring Citizenship

Now, let us move on to an essential aspect of citizenship: the various ways by which one
can acquire it. Different countries have distinct policies for granting citizenship, which are
often shaped by history, culture, and national security concerns. Generally, citizenship can
be acquired in four primary ways: by birth, by descent, through naturalization, and by
registration. Let's explore each of these in greater detail.

○ 1. Citizenship by Birth

Citizenship by birth, also known as jus soli, or “right of the soil,” is one of the most common
ways to acquire citizenship. In countries that recognize jus soli, any individual born within
the country's territory automatically becomes a citizen, regardless of their parents'
nationality. This policy is particularly common in the Americas, with countries like the
United States, Canada, and Brazil being notable examples.

Citizenship by birth strengthens the principle of inclusion by making sure that anyone born
within a nation can belong to that nation. However, it also raises some policy debates, as
some argue that it can attract “birth tourism,” where individuals intentionally give birth in a
foreign country to secure citizenship for their child. Despite these discussions, jus soli
continues to stand as a foundational mode of acquiring citizenship in many countries.

○ 2. Citizenship by Descent

Another pathway to citizenship is through descent, also known as jus sanguinis, or “right of
blood.” This principle grants citizenship based on the nationality or citizenship status of
one’s parents. In countries that adhere to jus sanguinis, a child born to a citizen

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automatically inherits the parents' citizenship, even if the child is born outside the country’s
territory.

Citizenship by descent fosters a strong sense of family continuity and connection to one's
homeland. It is commonly practiced in countries like Germany, Italy, and Japan, where
maintaining cultural and familial bonds is deeply valued. This mode of acquiring citizenship
is particularly significant for diaspora communities and families who live abroad yet wish to
retain their native nationality.

○ 3. Citizenship by Naturalization

The third and perhaps most well-known way to acquire citizenship is through
naturalization. Naturalization is the process by which a non-citizen voluntarily becomes a
citizen after meeting specific requirements set by the host country. These requirements
often include a minimum period of residency, language proficiency, knowledge of the
country’s laws and history, and, in some cases, a demonstration of good moral character.

Naturalization is a vital avenue for individuals who seek to make a new country their
permanent home. It allows immigrants and refugees to fully participate in society, both
politically and socially. While the requirements vary from country to country, naturalization
provides an inclusive option for those who wish to become part of the national fabric.
Countries like Canada and Australia have structured naturalization processes to attract
immigrants and promote diversity, while others, like Switzerland, have more stringent and
lengthy procedures to ensure integration.

○ 4. Citizenship by Registration or Marriage

The final mode of acquiring citizenship we’ll discuss is citizenship by registration or, in some
cases, by marriage. In many countries, individuals can acquire citizenship through marriage
to a citizen, provided they meet certain conditions, such as a stipulated period of marriage
or proof of cohabitation. Additionally, some nations allow individuals to register for
citizenship if they have family ties within the country or have contributed significantly to
society.

This pathway acknowledges the connections and contributions made by foreigners who
may already feel a deep attachment to the country. It emphasizes inclusivity and respect

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for familial and cultural ties. While some argue that this process may be exploited, stringent
verification processes and waiting periods are typically in place to prevent misuse.

The Evolving Concept of Citizenship

As we look at these modes of acquiring citizenship, it is essential to recognize that the

concept of citizenship itself is evolving. Globalization, migration, and dual or multiple
citizenships have led many countries to reassess their policies. Dual citizenship, for
example, allows individuals to hold citizenship in more than one country, enabling them to
maintain cultural ties and participate in multiple communities. While some countries view
dual citizenship positively, others see it as a potential conflict of allegiance.

In today’s world, our identities are increasingly multifaceted. Many of us feel connected to
more than one country, and the idea of “global citizenship” has emerged as a result. Global
citizenship calls on us to embrace our responsibilities not just to our home nations but to
the global community. It reminds us that, regardless of our legal status or nationality, we
share common values and a duty to protect the planet and promote peace and justice
worldwide.

To conclude, citizenship is a powerful force that shapes our lives, our societies, and our
world. Whether acquired by birth, descent, naturalization, or marriage, citizenship provides
individuals with a sense of belonging and an opportunity to contribute to their
communities. It reminds us that we are part of something larger than ourselves and that,
together, we can work toward a better future.

As we continue to welcome new citizens, both locally and globally, let us remember the
importance of inclusivity, respect, and unity. For at the end of the day, the strength of any
nation lies not just in its laws or policies but in the sense of belonging it provides to all its
people.

Thank you