History The Universal Declaration Of Human Rights Questions Medium
The right to nationality is one of the fundamental human rights recognized by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). It refers to the right of every individual to belong to a particular country or nation, and to have legal recognition and protection from that country.
The right to nationality ensures that individuals have a legal identity and are recognized as citizens or members of a specific nation. It encompasses the right to acquire, change, or retain nationality, as well as the right to not be arbitrarily deprived of nationality.
This right is crucial as it provides individuals with a sense of belonging, identity, and legal protection within a particular country. It allows individuals to access various civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights that are tied to citizenship, such as the right to vote, education, healthcare, employment, and social security.
The right to nationality is also closely linked to the principle of non-discrimination, as it prohibits any distinction, exclusion, or restriction based on race, ethnicity, religion, or gender in the acquisition or enjoyment of nationality.
The UDHR recognizes the importance of the right to nationality in Article 15, stating that "everyone has the right to a nationality" and that "no one shall be arbitrarily deprived of his nationality." This principle has been further elaborated and expanded upon in other international human rights instruments, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).
Overall, the right to nationality is a fundamental human right that ensures individuals' legal recognition, protection, and access to various rights and opportunities within a specific country or nation. It plays a crucial role in promoting equality, non-discrimination, and the overall well-being of individuals in society.