Mapped: Birthright citizenship around the world
Briefly

President Trump's challenge to U.S. birthright citizenship began on his inauguration day, aiming to dismantle a significant constitutional doctrine. While it is a core aspect of American identity, many other nations impose conditions on citizenship, based on parents' status or residency duration. The historical roots of birthright citizenship in the U.S. reflect a desire for inclusivity but also connect to colonial practices seeking population growth in the Americas. Recent global trends show a move towards restricting this practice, with notable changes in countries like Ireland and the Dominican Republic.
Birthright citizenship, while a cornerstone of American citizenship, is unique to the Western Hemisphere, with many other nations requiring conditions based on parentage or residency.
The historical foundation of birthright citizenship in the U.S. seeks to promote inclusivity and eliminate legal inequalities, a perspective highlighted by the American Immigration Council.
This principle has roots in colonialism, where European powers sought to increase their populations in the Americas. Sociologist John Skrentny noted its aim to establish authority.
Recent decades have seen several countries abolish unrestricted birthright citizenship, with examples including Ireland and the Dominican Republic, affecting many individuals' rights.
Read at Axios
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