What does Statelessness mean under International Law?
📘 Statelessness under International Law
Definition:
Statelessness means a person is not considered as a national (citizen) by any country under the operation of its laws.
In simple terms, a stateless person does not have legal nationality or citizenship in any state.
Legal Definition (1954 Convention on the Status of Stateless Persons)
According to the 1954 Convention relating to the Status of Stateless Persons (UN):
A stateless person is someone "who is not considered as a national by any State under the operation of its law."
What Does Statelessness Mean?
The person has no nationality recognized by any country.
Lacks the protection, rights, and privileges that come with nationality.
Cannot claim protection or diplomatic assistance from any state.
Often faces difficulties in accessing basic rights such as education, employment, travel, and legal residence.
Causes of Statelessness
Discrimination in nationality laws (e.g., based on ethnicity, religion, gender)
State succession (when new states form and do not grant nationality to certain groups)
Administrative issues or failure to register births.
Loss or deprivation of nationality without acquiring another.
Conflicts of nationality laws (e.g., when laws of two countries exclude a person).
International Legal Framework
Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), Article 15:
“Everyone has the right to a nationality.”
1954 Convention Relating to the Status of Stateless Persons:
Defines the status and provides protection.
1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness:
Aims to prevent and reduce statelessness by requiring states to grant nationality in certain cases.
Why Is Statelessness Important?
Stateless persons are vulnerable to human rights violations.
Lack of nationality often means lack of identity and legal recognition.
International law encourages states to prevent statelessness and protect stateless persons.
Do write to us if you need any further assistance.
RELATED Blog
0 comments