ABSTRACT
Chapter 5 looks at the impact and challenges created by the implementation of dual citizenship policies. In light of the issues and challenges raised in relation to the extension of political rights to emigrants, this chapter investigates the impact of the dual citizenship policy in the creation of a strong sense of identity within the Italian transnational community. In particular, this chapter investigates the implication of granting full citizenship rights to Italian descendants, including political rights. The chapter argues that the extension of political rights to emigrants can serve domestic political purposes but it does not necessarily help to build Italian identity from abroad. Despite the limited results over the past years, some Italian political parties have demonstrated their support for a specific narrative on citizenship, identity building, and the importance of political participation of emigrants. This chapter discusses whether a non-resident citizen should fell Class-B citizens without political rights and the view of Italian policy makers on this topic.
