Dual nationality as a geopotical tool in Central and Eastern European Countries

Abstract

The Russian-Ukrainian conflict is the result of a diverse set of geopolitical factors. These include the uncomfortable situation of Russian national minorities on Ukrainian territory and the policy of expanding the influence promoted by the mother state, Russia, towards those minorities, by granting nationality through expedited procedures. This phenomenon, consisting of the progressive creation of a supranational state that goes beyond its own political borders and enters those of neighbouring states, is not unique to Mother Russia, but, on the contrary, has recent precedents in other Central and Eastern European countries, such as the massive naturalization policies deployed by Romania and Hungary with respect to cross-border Moldovans and Hungarians, respectively. It can be argued that we are facing a potential source of conflict, sometimes simmering for decades, which can lead, at worst, to disastrous consequences and, at best, to a reversal of the generous treatment of the multiple nationality observed since the end of the 20th century. This study analyses the evolution of the treatment of dual nationality until its transformation into a powerful geopolitical tool.