ABSTRACT
Theorists of the 'new citizenship' strongly criticize the notion of citizenship in its classical definition on the basis of both fact and value. The purely political nature of citizenship has been linked to the time when nationalism and nation-states were established. The link between nation-state and citizenship, despite its historical nature, and citizenship can be exercised at a different level. The concept of a 'European Citizenship' (EC) emerged early in the development of the EC but there was little clarity as to the meaning of 'citizenship' rights. The Advocates General and the European Court of Justice also contributed to the development of citizenship ideas predominantly through cases involving the free movement principle. The right to petition the European Parliament already existed under the Rules of the European Parliament. The Court of Justice has addressed issues relating to culture raised by Member States wishing to take protectionist measures in all of the four freedoms.
