The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees estimates that there are more than 12 million stateless people in the world. The existence of stateless populations challenges some central tenets of international law and contemporary human rights discourses, yet only a very small number of states have made measurable progress in helping individuals acquire or regain citizenship. This fascinating study examines positive developments in eight countries and pinpoints the benefits of citizenship now enjoyed by formerly stateless persons. The expert contributors present an original comparative study that draws upon legal and political analysis as well as empirical research (incorporating over 120 interviews conducted in eight countries), and features the documentary photography of Greg Constantine. The benefits of citizenship over statelessness are identified at both community and individual level, and include the fundamental right to enjoy a nationality, to obtain identification documents, to be represented politically, to access the formal labor market and to move about freely. Gaining or reacquiring citizenship helps eliminate isolation and solicits the empowerment of individuals, collectively and personally. Such changes are of considerable importance to the advancement of a human rights regime based on dignity and respect. This highly original and thought-provoking book will strongly appeal to a wide-ranging audience including academics, researchers, students, human rights activists and government officials with an interest in a diverse range of fields encompassing law, international studies, public policy, human rights and citizenship.

This twisted tale of a stolen identity will have you spellbound. Melissa, the main character, has only one living relative, an aunt, whom she decided to visit. The trip to Aunt Celia's in northern Maine turns out to be a big disappointment. Upon arrival, plans for her aunt's funeral are underway. Melissa has skipped a semester of college to get acquainted with the aunt she has never met; therefore, the news is devastating. Vera, a college roommate and confidant, previously helped Melissa cope with the loss of her parents. Their friendship lasted through the summer by working together in a resort restaurant. Each was fated to meet a love interest that summer that would last far into the next school year. Melissa's trip to northern Maine and her aunt's palatial estate entangles a web of intrigue and mystery that needs to be investigated. Aunt Celia's will can't be read until it is cleared of an extortion charge; therefore, Melissa is required to stay at the mansion until the will is settled. The employees seem to welcome Melissa to her aunt's home. Larry, the handsome handyman, has a questionable character and a wife that seems to have disappeared. The butler, Sedwig, is a reliable employee who has worked for Aunt Celia for several years but has a deep dark hidden secret. The caretakers, Bevery and Barry, are mainly interested in her aunt's money and do not hide their greed. Their inheritance from Aunt Celia's will is the reason they remain at the mansion.