The 1954 Convention Relating to the Status of Stateless Persons: Implementation Within the European Union Member States and Recommendations for Harmonization

Abstract

This article provides an assessment of the implementation of the 1954 Convention relating to the Status of Stateless Persons as of 2003 within the fifteen European Union Member States. The study provides a brief overview of the history, object, and purpose of the 1954 Convention, analyzing the definition of statelessness and methods for practical implementation. Approaches taken by EU Member States to the identification and recognition of stateless persons on their respective territories are assessed, and recommendations aimed at furthering harmonization of approaches as between States are outlined.