Citizenship in Africa: The Law of Belonging

Citizenship in Africa provides a comprehensive exploration of nationality laws in Africa, analyzing their impact on politics and society from a trans-continental comparative perspective. It examines the history of nationality laws, considers case studies, and explores the law's relevance for identity and belonging.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 28 January 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Citizenship in Africa is a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of nationality laws across the continent, providing a theoretical and historical context for understanding their impact on politics and society. This groundbreaking work offers the first comprehensive analysis of the influence of nationality law on politics and society in various African states from a trans-continental comparative perspective.

The book is structured in four parts, each contributing to a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Part I establishes the framework for the study by examining existing scholarship on citizenship from both sociological and legal perspectives. It traces the history of nationality laws in Africa from the colonial period to the present day, highlighting the key developments and challenges that have shaped the legal landscape.

Part II delves deeper into the theoretical and conceptual aspects of nationality law, exploring the various theories and models that have been used to explain and analyze citizenship. It examines the role of nationality law in constructing and maintaining social identities, as well as its impact on political participation, identity formation, and social exclusion.

Part III presents case studies that illustrate the application and misapplication of nationality laws in different African countries. These case studies provide concrete examples of how nationality laws have influenced political processes, social movements, and individual rights. They also highlight the relationship between legal and political developments in each country, emphasizing the ways in which the law can either promote or hinder social change.

Part IV explores the impact of nationality law on politics and its relevance for questions of identity and 'belonging' in the contemporary African context. It examines the ways in which nationality laws shape political representation, citizenship rights, and social cohesion. It also considers the challenges and opportunities that arise from the intersection of nationality law and other forms of identity, such as ethnicity, religion, and gender.

In conclusion, Citizenship in Africa is an important and groundbreaking work that provides a comprehensive analysis of nationality laws in Africa. It offers a valuable contribution to the field of citizenship studies, particularly in the context of Africa, where the legal landscape is complex and evolving. By examining the historical, theoretical, and practical aspects of nationality law, this book sheds light on the ways in which citizenship is constructed, contested, and transformed in the African context. It raises important questions for further research and policy development, and will be of interest to scholars, policymakers, and activists working in the fields of citizenship, politics, and social justice.

Weight: 628g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509944002