Book launch of Enfranchising Ireland? Identity, citizenship and state

The rights and duties associated with the concept of citizenship are a central aspect of the process of identity-building and state formation. Enfranchising Ireland? explores the origin and evolution of the concepts of citizenship and identity in Ireland from a broadly historical perspective. It traces the development of these concepts in terms of rights and duties, from classical times, through the medieval period and the partition in Ireland, focusing on the implications for Ireland’s citizens. In addition, the book considers the present difficulties surrounding Brexit, the refugee crisis and the related matters of migration and integration. 

This publication evolved from the conference of the same name that took place at the Royal Irish Academy on 20 October 2016, under the auspices of the Historical Studies Committee of the Academy and with support from and the Department of Justice and Equality and NUI Galway. 

The conference was opened and addressed by David Stanton, T.D. Minister of State for Equality, Immigration and Integration, whom the Academy welcomes back to launch the publication.