Compare and contrast the roles of citizens and noncitizens. What role do all groups share?(
Citizens and noncitizens play different roles in a society based on their legal status and rights. Here is a comparison and contrast of these roles:
1. Legal status: Citizens are individuals who hold the nationality or citizenship of a particular country, granting them specific rights and privileges. Noncitizens, on the other hand, do not possess the same legal status and may have temporary residency, work visas, or be undocumented immigrants.
2. Rights and privileges: Citizens generally enjoy a wide range of legal rights and privileges provided by the state, such as the right to vote, protection under the law, access to public services, social benefits, and political participation. Noncitizens have limited rights and may not be eligible for benefits or political participation, depending on their legal status. However, human rights should still be respected regardless of citizenship, meaning that both citizens and noncitizens have a core set of universal rights such as the right to life and freedom from torture.
3. Responsibilities: Citizens are expected to fulfill certain responsibilities towards their country, including obeying laws, paying taxes, serving on juries, and potentially participating in military or civil service. Noncitizens, while living within the country's jurisdiction, have fewer responsibilities in regard to national obligations, although they are still required to comply with local laws.
4. Legal protections: Citizens generally have stronger legal protections compared to noncitizens, as they can rely on the legal framework established by their country. Noncitizens might face vulnerabilities due to their precarious legal status, which can potentially result in limited access to justice, exploitation, or facing heightened immigration enforcement.
5. Access to benefits and services: Citizens have broader access to government-provided benefits and services such as healthcare, education, welfare programs, and social security. Noncitizens may have limited or no access to certain services or may face additional barriers due to their immigration status.
Despite these differences, citizens and noncitizens share some common roles and responsibilities. They both contribute to the cultural, social, and economic development of a society. They share the responsibility of obeying the laws, participating in their communities, and respecting the rights and dignity of all individuals. Additionally, both citizens and noncitizens can contribute to the welfare of a society by engaging in volunteer work, promoting social cohesion, and fostering inclusivity.