Modes of acquisition and loss of citizenship around the world : comparative typology and main patterns in 2020

Abstract

This Working Paper introduces the new GLOBALCIT Citizenship Law Dataset, by discussing the systematised comparative typology of modes of acquisition and loss of citizenship in the new Dataset and describing the main patterns observed around the world in 2020. The GLOBALCIT Citizenship Law Dataset integrates, systematises and updates information previously included in two online GLOBALCIT datasets. The Dataset includes information on the different ways in which citizenship can be acquired and lost across the world in 190 states. It is organized around a comprehensive typology of 26 modes of acquisition and 15 modes of loss of citizenship, which outlines, in a systematic way, the various ways in which citizenship can be acquired and lost. For each ‘mode of acquisition’ the typology outlines a standardised ‘target person’ which allows comparing rules applicable to similar groups across states. To facilitate comparison, the entries for each mode have been categorised in standardised categories and a more elaborate specification of the legal conditions is provided for each entry. The Dataset seeks to provide a global outlook on the current state of citizenship law and is designed for use across academic disciplines. The aim of the paper is twofold, namely a) to outline the development and methodological foundations of the new Dataset, and b) to demonstrate its potential use by highlighting the main patterns that can be observed based on the updated and systematised data.