Ambidextrous Political Engagement?: The Case of US-Canada Dual Citizens

• In Event: The Development and Dynamics of Immigration Policy in Canada

Abstract

Dynamics of migration and increasing cases of international marriages are transforming the conceptualization and practice of citizenship. While dual citizenship, in theory, permits simultaneous involvement in two countries, barriers to achieving symmetrical political involvement exist. This study specifically investigates individuals holding both US and Canadian citizenship, examining their political engagement in a cross-border context. The original survey data captures various dimensions of citizenship within this population, including aspects such as citizenship as socialization, citizenship as an identity claim, and citizenship as political participation. The findings reveal the extent of ‘ambidextrous’ political engagement among dual citizens. Furthermore, the study explores whether political participation is activated during the salient and critical elections and whether it persists once activated. The study identifies the potential for a positive-sum approach to political engagement and offers insights into what to expect in a globalizing world where an increasing number of citizens are forming multiple ties with more than one country and exercising their rights as citizens.

Author

• Seyoung Jung, Université du Québec à Montréal