Limited dual citizenship gives Indonesian diaspora hope of return, better future

Indonesia is proposing a revision to its citizenship law to allow limited dual citizenship, a move aimed at encouraging skilled members of its diaspora to return home. This proposed change represents a significant departure from the country's long-standing policy of single citizenship since 1945. Currently, dual citizenship is only permitted for children of mixed marriages until they turn 18, after which they must choose one nationality. The new proposal would grant dual nationality selectively to individuals with expertise deemed crucial for national development, such as scientists and medical specialists, who are recommended by government bodies or institutions. This initiative addresses a long-standing demand from the Indonesian diaspora for such a scheme as a condition for their potential return.