ABSTRACT
The contemporary world is structured by two contradictory social processes. First, there are powerful pressures towards regional autonomy and localism and, second, there is a stronger notion of globalism and global political responsibilities. The concept of citizenship is still in a process of change and development. Placing citizenship in a supranational context instantly provoked debates over its political and conceptual implications. The case study of 'European' citizenship practice in the European Community/European Union highlights the process that contributes to the construction of both legal and identity-based belonging as central aspects of citizenship in a non-state. Two observations are crucial for the case study. One is methodological the other conceptual. Identity is the element traditionally considered on apar with rights as a basic element of citizenship, but postnational citizenship, or specifically the developing practice of 'European' citizenship causes potential problems with that identity. This chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.
