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This article surveys the practice of dual nationality in the Western Hemisphere, particularly as it impacts the naturalization rates of immigrants in the United States. The article begins by looking at the extent and spread of dual nationality provisions and the pathways for its implementation. Next, the article turns to a discussion of the multiple (and at times conflicting) interests -- of immigrants, sending states and receiving states -- in dual nationality. While immigrants and sending countries are in general agreement on the positive benefits of dual nationality, commentators in receiving countries like the United States continue to express deep unease at the spread of dual nationality and its consequences for American citizenship. Are these concerns justified? Not according to U.S. naturalization rates. Data from 1965 to 1997 indicate that immigrants from countries recognizing dual nationality average higher naturalization rates in the United States than countries that do not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the political and social consequences of non-citizenship on the Hispanic community and describes how the studies in this volume grew from a national applied research project to promote citizenship among immigrant Hispanics. By highlighting the findings of the studies on Latino naturalization contained in this volume, the author suggests some factors that can be promoted to encourage naturalization among long-term resident aliens. Should these efforts be successful, he suggests, the greatest obstacle to political empowerment in the Latino community will be removed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]