A citizen is an individual who belongs to a state and enjoys the rights and privileges granted by that state. Citizenship defines the relationship between the state and an individual, where the individual pledges allegiance to the state and, in return, receives protection from it. The concept of citizenship dates back to ancient Greece. 🏛️

Legal and Moral Aspects of Citizenship ⚖️

Legal Aspects 📜

Citizenship is legally recognized, with rights enshrined in a country’s laws. Citizens are entitled to protection from the state, both at home and abroad. Failure to comply with the legal responsibilities of citizenship can result in prosecution. 🚨

Moral Aspects ❤️

Moral citizenship emphasizes self-discipline and responsibility. A morally upright citizen fulfills obligations to both the state and the community. This includes duties towards family, community, and the nation at large. 🤝

Alien Status 🌍

An alien is someone residing in a country that is not their own. Aliens owe allegiance to their home country and enjoy civil, but not political, rights in the host country. Misconduct or serious crimes can result in deportation. 🚫

Types of Citizenship 🗺️

Natural Citizenship 👶

Citizenship acquired through birth can be classified into two types:

• Jus Sanguinis (Right of Blood): Citizenship is determined by parentage or descent. 👪
• Jus Soli (Right of Soil): Citizenship is determined by the place of birth. 🌍

Countries like Zambia follow Jus Sanguinis, while others, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, follow Jus Soli.

Naturalized Citizenship 🌐

Foreigners can acquire citizenship through naturalization, subject to meeting specific conditions. These include:

• Rule of Residence: A foreigner must reside in the host country for a specified period (e.g., 10 years in Zambia). ⏳
• Declaration: Applicants must submit prescribed forms and documents declaring their intent to apply for citizenship. 📝
• Renunciation of Previous Citizenship: Applicants must renounce their former citizenship and pledge allegiance to the new country. 🔄
• Marriage: A spouse may acquire citizenship through marriage, although one may choose to retain their original citizenship. 💍

Qualifications for Zambian Citizenship 🇿🇲

• Article 4: Individuals who were entitled to Zambian citizenship before the current constitution’s enactment automatically become citizens once certain conditions are met.
• Article 5: Individuals born in or outside Zambia after the constitution’s commencement are entitled to citizenship.
• Article 6: Individuals aged 21 years or older, who have resided in Zambia continuously for 10 years, can apply for citizenship.

Special Groups 🧑‍🤝‍🧑

Refugees, persons with disabilities, the elderly, unemployed youths, and orphans are special groups deserving specific attention from the government. 🤲

Symbols of Zambian Citizenship 🎫

The Green National Registration Card (NRC) symbolizes Zambian citizenship. The minimum age for obtaining an NRC is 16 years. 🆔

Loss of Citizenship ❌

Citizenship can be lost for various reasons, including:

• Acquisition of another country’s citizenship. 🌍
• Desertion from military service. 🪖
• Committing serious crimes or engaging in unacceptable activities. 🚔
• Accepting foreign titles or decorations. 🎖️

Qualities of a Good Citizen 🌟

• Democratic principles 🗳️
• Contribution to national development 🌱
• Self-control 🧘‍♂️
• Courage 💪
• Respect for the law 📜

Duties and Responsibilities of a Citizen 🏛️

• Be patriotic and loyal to Zambia. 🇿🇲
• Uphold democracy and the rule of law. ⚖️
• Pay taxes and dues. 💰
• Serve in the military when called upon. 🪖

Personal and Civic Responsibilities 🏠

Personal responsibilities include taking care of oneself and supporting one’s family. Civic responsibilities include obeying the law and voting. 🗳️

Obstacles to Good Citizenship 🚧

Indifference, self-interest, political allegiance, poverty, ignorance, electoral defects, media misinformation, and conflicting societal loyalties hinder good citizenship. ⚠️

Promoting Good Citizenship 🌍

Administrative Measures:

• Restructuring political and social institutions to reflect citizens' needs. 🏛️
• Shortening the tenure of elected officials to increase accountability. ⏳
• Expanding the electoral franchise to raise awareness of citizens' rights. 📢

Moral Remedies:

• Encouraging spiritual and mental motivation through education. 📚

Stability and Justice:

• Ensuring security and justice for both leaders and citizens. ⚖️

Sample Questions ❓

• State two qualifications for Zambian citizenship.
• Name two kinds of citizenship.
• What are the symbols of Zambian citizenship?
• Give four qualities of a good citizen.
• What rules regulate natural citizenship?
• Explain why human rights are universal.
• Identify obstacles to good citizenship.
• Discuss the qualities of a good citizen.
• Describe ways of promoting good citizenship.