Statelessness is a widespread yet often overlooked issue, with an estimated 15 million people worldwide living without nationality. However, the actual numbers are likely much higher, as many cases go unreported, impacting countless lives. The Asia-Pacific region is home to the largest population of stateless people, where nearly every country faces this challenge. Alarmingly, new vulnerable groups are continuously being denied citizenship and the rights that come with it.
The root causes of statelessness in Asia-Pacific stem from discriminatory nationality laws, policies, and practices based on gender, ethnicity, and religion. These systemic barriers prevent individuals from obtaining legal recognition, leaving them in a limbo of invisibility and exclusion. However, these challenges are not insurmountable and must be urgently addressed.
Addressing statelessness in the Asia-Pacific region
The Statelessness and Dignified Citizenship Coalition – Asia Pacific (SDCC-AP) was officially launched on February 26, 2024, marking a significant step in the regional effort to address statelessness. This launch followed a series of collaborative events, including the 2022 Regional Consultation on Statelessness, co-organized by UNHCR's Regional Bureau Asia Pacific and Nationality For All (NFA). The consultation brought together 19 civil society and academic organizations for discussions on strengthening inclusion and meaningful participation of stateless individuals, including voices of those with lived experience. Building on these efforts, SDCC-AP was formed through a careful process led by NFA. Drawing lessons from previous networks, SDCC-AP aims to create a stronger, more functional collective to address the challenges of statelessness in the region.
Since 2012, I have been working on statelessness in Pakistan with Imkaan Welfare Organization, the only organization in the country focused on this issue. The journey has been challenging and often isolating, with limited understanding and awareness of statelessness within the nation. Navigating this space has proven difficult, with scarce opportunities for support, collaboration, or sharing experiences to develop effective solutions.
However, being part of the process of SDCC-AP coming into being has transformed this landscape, bringing a sense of hope, strength, and unity. What was once a lonely journey now feels part of a collective effort, as the coalition has opened new avenues for collaboration, advocacy, and shared learning. This collective approach has fundamentally shifted the dynamics, making the work feel more interconnected and impactful.
A life of dignity
SDCC-AP operates with a clear mission and vision at its core. The coalition's mission is to "collaborate respectfully and in solidarity to catalyse regional action to address statelessness and promote equal nationality and dignified citizenship." This mission underscores SDCC-AP's commitment to working together with empathy and unity to drive effective regional responses to statelessness.
Furthermore, the vision driving SDCC-AP is that "no person is stateless and each person can exercise the right to equal nationality and can live with dignity in the Asia Pacific region." This vision reflects the coalition's goal of working towards ensuring that every individual has access to nationality and enjoys a life of dignity, free from the challenges and injustices associated with statelessness.
Building solidarity
The launch of SDCC-AP's website in August 2024 is a significant milestone. This platform is designed to be a central hub for information, resources, and updates on SDCC-APs initiatives and events. It provides stakeholders with easy access to valuable tools, research, and opportunities to engage with our work. By enhancing transparency and fostering collaboration, our website aims to strengthen collective efforts and amplify our impact in addressing the challenges faced by stateless communities throughout Asia-Pacific.
The goals and priorities of SDCC-AP are clear and impactful.
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We aim to strengthen solidarity among civil society organizations and activists working on statelessness and the right to equal nationality, fostering a united front to tackle these challenges.
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We seek to support advocacy initiatives at global, regional, national, and local levels, focusing on securing the right to equal nationality, dignified citizenship, and addressing statelessness effectively.
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We are committed to raising awareness about the statelessness problem and the ongoing efforts to resolve it, ensuring that the issue remains in the spotlight and garners the attention and action it deserves.
These priorities are designed to enhance our collective impact and drive meaningful progress toward a future where everyone can enjoy their right to nationality and live with dignity.
Obstacles
As a new coalition, SDCC-AP faces several challenges. Building visibility, gaining support from diverse stakeholders, funding needs and navigating political resistance are just a few of the hurdles ahead. However, the coalition remains determined to push forward, committed to amplifying the voices of impacted individuals and creating a platform where collective action and support can thrive. Despite the complexities, our strength lies in solidarity and collaboration, which will guide us through these early obstacles.
Looking ahead
Looking ahead, the launch of SDCC-AP represents an important moment in the fight against statelessness. United action is crucial in addressing this complex issue, as it amplifies our collective voice and raises awareness more effectively than any single effort could. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, including those directly impacted by statelessness, we gain invaluable insights and perspectives that strengthen our advocacy and deepen our understanding of the challenges faced.
This inclusive approach not only enhances our ability to advocate for change but also ensures that the experiences of those most affected guide our efforts, leading to more effective and empathetic solutions. Through this united approach, we build greater awareness and support, paving the way for meaningful progress and a more inclusive future for all.
