Citizenship deprivation as a counterterrorism measure in Europe:possible follow-up scenarios, human rights infringements and the effect on counterterrorism

In: Bolhuis , M P & van Wijk , J 2020 , ' Citizenship deprivation as a counterterrorism measure in Europe : possible follow-up scenarios, human rights infringements and the effect on counterterrorism ' , European Journal of Migration and Law , vol. 22 , no. 3 , pp. 338-365 . https://doi.org/10.1163/15718166-12340079

Abstract

The departure of substantial numbers of 'foreign fighters' and the occurrence of terrorist attacks on European soil have prompted renewed interest in citizenship deprivation as a policy measure. This article aims to contribute to the debate on its utility as a counterterrorism measure by examining recent developments in citizenship deprivation legislation and its use in Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the UK; discussing the wide array of possible scenarios that may follow after an individual is deprived of citizenship; and analysing to what extent the various outcomes are instrumental in countering terrorism. It concludes that most of the outcomes are problematic from a human rights perspective, or counterproductive in the fight against terrorism as they may cause further marginalisation and radicalisation and can play into the hands of terrorist groups, may cause people to disappear from the radar, and may undermine crucial international cooperation.