The proposal put forth by the Law and Human Rights Minister, Yasonna Laoly, to explore a similar model to India’s Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) scheme for the Indonesian diaspora has sparked discussion on the potential benefits of such an approach. The OCI scheme, which affords members of the Indian diaspora the same privileges as Indian citizens, excluding political rights, has been cited as a possible solution to the challenges faced by Indonesians residing abroad who desire to return to their home country.
In a meeting with the House of Representatives’ Commission III, Minister Yasonna advocated for the consideration of implementing a system akin to the OCI scheme, which would provide the Indonesian diaspora with lifetime multiple entry visas while withholding political rights, such as voting, eligibility for election, or public office. This proposal is deemed as a pragmatic and feasible measure to provide support to Indonesians seeking repatriation. It is important to note that Indonesia’s current Citizenship Law generally prohibits dual citizenship, with exceptions made for minors under 18 years of age, who are required to make a definitive choice of nationality upon reaching maturity or before entering into marriage.
Minister Yasonna emphasized the country’s resolute commitment to maintaining a singular citizenship system, drawing attention to the philosophical and ideological foundations embedded in Indonesia’s history, particularly invoking the Youth Pledge of October 28, 1928. He reiterated the sentiments of the pledge, stating, “One homeland, Indonesia. One nation, Indonesia. One language, Indonesian.”
The potential adoption of India’s OCI scheme could potentially herald a significant policy shift for Indonesia, providing a more favorable environment for its diaspora while upholding the nation’s fundamental values. As deliberations on this matter continue, the reception of such a proposal and the likelihood of its integration into Indonesian law remain uncertain.
We invite your perspectives on this proposed measure. Have you encountered any experiences or insights pertaining to dual citizenship? Your feedback is invaluable to us, and we eagerly anticipate your contributions to this discourse.
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