On Citizenship, States, and Markets

This article brings to center stage the debate that is currently absent in larger discussions about citizenship and immigration: the reality that state and market forces are becoming increasingly intertwined in shaping migration selection criteria and membership-allocation priorities. The bulk of academic debate has understandably focused on the 'restrictive turn' witnessed in recent years with respect to ordinary immigration and naturalization applicants, such as those who enter on the basis of a family reunification claim or for humanitarian reasons. We will argue, however, that equally important lessons about the current state of citizenship can be learned by examining who is given the red-carpet treatment, and on what basis. In today's global knowledge economy, those who can shore up the human capital reserve of the nation while bolstering its international reputation as a talent magnet are in high demand. Who is fast-tracked in the visa and citizenship line is no less revealing of the qualities we value in others and seek to incorporate into our political communities, than who is pushed to the back of the line or denied access altogether. Adapted from the source document.