"Ghost Citizens," published by Fernwood Publishing in February 2024, delves deep into the complex issue of statelessness and the human rights challenges it presents. This thorough 264-page examination is not merely an academic inquiry; it is a well-researched narrative that draws attention to the experiences of people trapped in legal limbo, often regarded as "ghost citizens" within their own countries. The ISBN numbers, 978-1773636665 for the paperback edition, assure easy accessibility for scholars, advocates, and anyone interested in understanding the implications of statelessness on a global scale. With a weight of 372 grams and dimensions of 15.24 x 0.64 x 22.86 cm, the book is ideally suited for both easy reading at home and transportation for academic discussions or seminars.
The author, drawing upon a rich background in law and social justice, constructs the idea of the "ghost citizen" to encapsulate a unique phenomenon where individuals inhabit a space of both belonging and alienation. These are individuals who perceive their country as home yet lack the legal recognition and rights associated with citizenship. The thorough examination of this concept not only sheds light on the immense social and psychological toll of statelessness but also promotes a critical understanding of the ways in which states may 'ghost' their own citizens through legal frameworks. The provision of insightful interviews with stateless individuals and their advocates adds an invaluable layer of human experience to the narrative, ensuring that the voices of the impacted individuals are central to the discussion.
"Ghost Citizens" does not shy away from dissecting the complex layers of international and domestic legal frameworks that contribute to the phenomenon of statelessness. It meticulously explores the historical legacy of British colonialism, particularly in Malaysia, showcasing how colonial legal structures continue to shape contemporary understandings of citizenship and belonging. This rigorous legal analysis presents a compelling argument regarding the state’s tendency to construct narratives around citizenship that are, at their core, racialized and exclusionary. The intersections of law, race, and nationality are examined, providing readers with a strong foundation to understand the broader implications of legislative ambiguities that leave many in a perpetual state of disenfranchisement.
What sets "Ghost Citizens" apart is its call for a re-evaluation of how communities are organized, with particular emphasis on borrowing ideas from Indigenous legal traditions and family law. This innovative perspective offers a broadening of the discourse surrounding citizenship and belonging, advocating for greater inclusivity and respect for kinship ties. Liew's challenge to established norms pushes the envelopes of current legal thought, prompting discourse around the redesigning of societal frameworks to better address the realities faced by stateless individuals. In doing so, the book not only raises awareness but also seeks to inspire action among legal practitioners, policymakers, and advocates.
In the realm of literature addressing statelessness, "Ghost Citizens" stands in stark contrast to similar works. While many texts may frame statelessness purely through human rights violations, Liew weaves in legal intricacies that enrich the understanding of this multifaceted issue. Compared to other titles in the field, such as “Statelessness and the Law” and “The Challenge of Statelessness,” this publication combines personal narratives with legal analysis, offering a more comprehensive picture. Readers seeking a text that not only informs but also engages with the lived experiences of stateless people will find much to contemplate within its pages.
The insights presented in "Ghost Citizens" resonate across various fields, from law to sociology, making it a pivotal addition to modern discourse on migration and citizenship. This potent exploration is essential for those seeking to comprehend the complexities surrounding state recognition and the implications of legal marginalization.
Overall, "Ghost Citizens" is a groundbreaking publication that demands attention and dialogue. It is a crucial reading for anyone passionate about social justice, legal advocacy, or the human rights landscape globally.
#GhostCitizens, #Statelessness, #SocialJustice, #LegalAnalysis, #Citizenship, #FernwoodPublishing, #HumanRights, #MigrationLaw, #IndigenousLegalTraditions, #ColonialLegacies
