Democratic Governance, Citizenship, and Legal Identity: Linking Theoretical Discussion and Operational Reality

Author
Boekle-Giuffrida, Bettina;
Date
May 2009
This working paper explores the importance of legal identity from both a theoretical and operational point of view. The need to investigate and deepen the understanding of the implications of being sans papiers in relation to social exclusion and governance issues is highlighted. This paper argues that proof of an adequate and secure identity document is not only the base of a democratic society and obligation of all governments, but also a fundamental citizenship right.