What Is Birthright Citizenship?

The Basic Idea

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Where Did It Start?

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Countries That Allow It

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Who Doesn’t Allow It?

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The Big Debates

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Why It Matters Today

The Takeaway

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What Is Birthright Citizenship?

A simple guide to how birthright citizenship works and why it matters today.

A simple guide to how birthright citizenship works and why it matters today.

The Basic Idea

The Basic Idea

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If you’re born in a country, you automatically become its citizen. Simple, right? Well, not everywhere!

If you’re born in a country, you automatically become its citizen. Simple, right? Well, not everywhere!

Where Did It Start?

Where Did It Start?

Countries That Allow It

Countries That Allow It

Who Doesn’t Allow It?

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Most of Europe, Asia, and Africa only grant citizenship if parents are citizens too. No birthplace bonus!

The Big Debates

Some say birthright citizenship encourages ‘birth tourism.’ Others see it as a basic human right.

Why It Matters Today

Why It Matters Today

Migration, borders, identity ; birthright citizenship is at the heart of global debates on belonging.

Migration, borders, identity ; birthright citizenship is at the heart of global debates on belonging.

The Takeaway

The Takeaway

Birthright citizenship shapes nations. Understanding it helps you see how countries define who belongs.

Birthright citizenship shapes nations. Understanding it helps you see how countries define who belongs.