The idea of citizenship in the Latin American debate

This article looks at some of the most significant
contributions to the contemporary Latin American debate
on citizenship. The subject has taken on central importance
in the justification of public policy throughout the continent,
chiefly because it allows the approach taken to the social
question to be based on active integration of economic, social
and cultural phenomena, and makes it possible to address
aspects of life in society -such as gender, ethnic and
environmental conflicts- that pose major challenges for
political regimes and for economic stability. Following an
introductory section, the article reviews the conceptual
underpinnings of sociological thinking about citizenship,
examines the implications of globalization for the analysis
and identification of problems associated with citizenship,
summarizes some Latin American contributions that have
helped to expand the explanatory capabilities and practical
usefulness of the concept and, lastly, offers some final
considerations.