Citizenship is usually something we inherit at birth. The legal principle of jus soli—“the right of the soil”—grants nationality to individuals born within a country’s territory, while jus sanguinis—“the right of blood”—ties it to one’s parents. But if we had the freedom to choose our citizenship, how would we decide?
This thought experiment forces us to reflect on privilege, justice, and identity. For me, if I could choose, I would select the United Kingdom. Here’s why.
The Philosophy of Birthright Citizenship
Birthright citizenship has shaped nations for centuries. The U.S. 14th Amendment ensured citizenship for all born in the U.S., while medieval England declared anyone born on English soil a “natural-born subject.”
Thinkers like John Locke argued that governments are only legitimate if people consent to them. Yet most of us never get to choose—we’re assigned citizenship at birth. Philosopher Joseph Carens even compares citizenship to medieval feudal privilege: unearned, inherited, and profoundly unequal.
So, if given the freedom, which country offers the best mix of liberty, fairness, and opportunity?
Criteria for Choosing Citizenship
To make a fair choice, I considered six factors:
- Rule of law and personal freedoms
- Healthcare and welfare
- Economic opportunity
- Political stability
- Environmental and public health outcomes
- Personal and cultural connection
On all these counts, the United Kingdom stood out.
Why the United Kingdom?
1. Rule of Law and Freedoms
The U.K. scores 93/100 in Freedom House (2024), categorized as Free. Its judiciary is largely independent, and citizens can protest, petition, and challenge laws without fear. Ranked 23rd in the World Press Freedom Index (2024), the U.K. also fosters a vibrant, pluralistic media landscape.
2. Healthcare for All
The National Health Service (NHS) is a global model of universal healthcare. With life expectancy at 81 years and strong investment in public health, the U.K. ensures medical care is a right, not a privilege.
3. Economic and Political Stability
Despite Brexit challenges, the U.K. remains the 6th largest economy in the world. Its political stability index (0.51) is above the European average, showing resilience and adaptability.
4. A Powerful Passport
British citizenship unlocks visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 170+ countries—a gateway to education, travel, and global opportunities.
5. A Personal Connection
For me, it’s also personal. My love for football, especially the Premier League, creates a cultural bond. Add to that my passion for history, which finds a home in the U.K.’s world-renowned museums and archives, and the connection becomes both emotional and symbolic.
Addressing Common Objections
- “Isn’t this choice a privilege?”
Yes, but acknowledging privilege highlights how arbitrary birthright entitlements are. It reminds us of global inequality and the need for fairer opportunities. - “Wouldn’t choice undermine national unity?”
True unity comes from justice, not tradition. If inherited citizenship perpetuates inequality, then questioning it is necessary for fairness. - “Is the U.K. really worth aspiring to?”
The U.K. isn’t perfect—xenophobia, economic gaps, and colonial legacies remain. But its democracy allows criticism, debate, and reform. That openness is what makes it strong.
The Path to British Citizenship
Becoming a British citizen isn’t automatic. It requires:
- 5 years of legal residency
- No serious criminal record
- English proficiency
- Passing the “Life in the UK” test
These requirements show that citizenship is more than a legal label—it’s a moral commitment to society.
Conclusion
If I could choose my citizenship, I would choose the United Kingdom. Not because it is perfect, but because it respects liberty, invests in healthcare, upholds the rule of law, and allows its people to keep striving for a fairer future.
Citizenship is more than birthright. It’s about where you feel you belong—ethically, emotionally, and politically. For me, that place is the U.K.
Read more on my essay here
Med Writes 
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