The Lurking Darkness Behind the Process of Acquiring Citizenship
Expert on Citizenship Criticizes Arbitrariness and Exclusion of Traditional Concept
Dimitry Kochenov, a renowned scholar specializing in citizenship, nationality, and immigration law, argues that the concept of citizenship requires examination of its inherent flaws and historical prejudices, rather than celebrating its supposed virtues. These criticisms are outlined in Kochenov's book, "Citizenship."
In a Reddit AMA session last September, Kochenov discussed citizenship as a tool for political control that serves to maintain complacency and uphold status quos, both locally and globally. Kochenov argued that citizenship's built-in racism, exclusion of women, and reinforcement of class divisions highlight the concerns that the ideals it originally defended are increasingly out of touch with contemporary society.
Here is a sampling of exchanges from the AMA session, lightly edited for clarity and style:
- Many politicians claim that "pull-effects" on immigration can be mitigated by making the path to asylum or citizenship more difficult. However, Kochenov suggests that having no borders, providing free movement and settlement rights, is not as radical as it might seem. He also emphasizes that the classification of individuals as "migrants" or "citizens" is dependent on legal arrangements, meaning that the terms themselves can be fluid.
- Kochenov was asked about his suggested improvements to citizenship. Rather than proposing specific mechanisms to replace traditional citizenship, Kochenov challenges the very concept of citizenship, suggesting that it clashes with contemporary notions of freedom and liberty due to its origins in suppressing class and caste systems. He points to the Schengen Zone as an example of a more inclusive system that allows for travel across borders without the strict regulations imposed by traditional citizenship.
- Another question focused on the possibility of visa-free travel between Eastern Europe and the European Union (EU), particularly regarding Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, and other countries. Kochenov noted that border policies are a matter of choice and that visa walls can be maintained for reasons that may be based more on politics than logic. Although the long-term trend may suggest a more open approach, he emphasized that illogical actions can persist in the world.
- One Reddit user inquired about Kochenov's views on abusive spouses who make it difficult for their partners to leave, comparing this to states that make it difficult for their citizens to renounce their citizenship. Kochenov reasoned that the inability to renounce citizenship is not always comparable to abusive relationships, but in either case, he reiterated the importance of individuals having the freedom to make their own choices.
- A final question discussed the connection between citizenship and ethnicity, specifically in Eastern European nation-states. Kochenov expressed concerns about the intolerance that arises from this connection and emphasized that ethnicity is an irrelevant factor in determining an individual's human worth. He suggested that equitable models of citizenship should be developed to recognize the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their nationality or background.
Throughout the AMA session, Kochenov addressed a range of questions, providing insights into the problems with the current citizenship system and the need for more equitable and inclusive solutions. Readers can find the entire discussion on Reddit here.
- In addressing modern-day societal challenges, Dimitry Kochenov emphasizes the importance of exploring 'education-and-self-development' and 'personal-growth' to better understand the flaws and prejudices in the traditional concept of citizenship.
- Acknowledging the rigid structure of traditional 'citizenship', Kochenov advocates for a more fluid approach in 'health-and-wellness' and 'mental-health' through embracing 'therapies-and-treatments' that foster inclusivity and break down barriers.
- In line with his vision for a more equitable world, Kochenov champions the integration of 'science' and 'technology' to create 'health-and-wellness' initiatives that transcend borders, eradicating the exclusionary nature of traditional citizenship and promoting global unity.
