Amsterdam University Press

Gianluca P. Parolin
Citizenship in the Arab World
Kin, Religion and Nation-State

The book is the fruit of five years of on-site research on citizenship in the Arab world. It takes a broader legal perspective to the multifaceted reality of nationality and citizenship. The methodology employed builds on the interdisciplinary approach of comparative legal studies, and brings in theories, concepts and insights from anthropology, political science, Arab and Islamic studies, linguistics and sociology. The work relies on a broad range of Western and Arab references, and all sources and documents were directly accessed in their original languages; this is particularly relevant for Arab legislation (all in-text reference has been translated by the author, and the original has been inserted using scientific transliteration).

Gianluca P. Parolin is assistant professor of comparative constitutional law at the Law Department of the American University in Cairo, Egypt.

Reviews

"This fascinating study shows how the kin- and faith-based distinctions and exclusions of citizenship in Arab countries reflect a unique historical and cultural trajectory. Parolin’s is an illuminating examination of the relationship among states, societies and individuals."
-- Mary Ann Tétreault, Una Chapman Cox Distinguished Professor of International Affairs, Trinity University, San Antonio, Texas

"Through the lens of citizenship, this book guides the reader through the different landscapes of constitutional development along the common cultural and legal Arab horizon. A must for anyone seeking better insight into the Arab world."
-- Giorgio Lombardi, Professor of Comparative Constitutional Law, University of Turin