Observer says dual citizenship brings pros and cons for sports
Indonesian football observer Mohamad Kusnaeni has said that the government’s proposed dual citizenship policy carries potential benefits and drawbacks for national sports development.
“In my view, the dual citizenship policy plan must indeed be approached with caution because there are advantages and disadvantages, although the benefits are greater, including for Indonesian sports development,” Mohamad Kusnaeni said in Jakarta on Friday.
He made the remarks in response to the government’s move to propose dual citizenship, which was conveyed by President Prabowo during the Delivery of the Government’s Introduction/Statement on the Bill on the 2027 State Budget and Financial Note at the MPR Building in Jakarta.
Prabowo proposed that Indonesia implement dual citizenship for certain talents needed by the Indonesian nation. According to the Head of State, Indonesia has millions of diaspora citizens spread across the world. Among them are great scientists, doctors, engineers, artificial intelligence experts, artists, and athletes, especially world-class professional footballers.
However, some have been forced to take up other citizenships due to career needs, family, or their service abroad. Meanwhile, the government cannot force Indonesia’s best talents to choose between the opportunity to work at a world-class level and their ties to the homeland.
Therefore, he proposed that the council amend the law to open limited dual citizenship for those with exceptional talent who can make extraordinary contributions to the national interest.
Prabowo stressed that the policy must be designed selectively and measurably, accompanied by integrity tests, clear obligations, and full protection of state security and interests.
From a sports perspective, exchanges occur both in terms of athletes and the sports business. He cited the example of many footballers in the French League who come from Morocco. Many Moroccan players hold dual citizenship (Moroccan-French) because the two countries have a historical relationship, as Morocco is a former French colony.
Likewise, England with its former colonies such as Australia and Singapore, as well as other countries.
“So dual citizenship is indeed something common globally,” he said.
However, Kusnaeni continued, if Indonesia implements the policy, it must be based on the principle of prudence with a mature process and considerations because Indonesian law still recognises single citizenship.
According to him, the policy could be a breath of fresh air for sports progress in Indonesia because it would make it easier for diaspora athlete talents who have so far struggled to choose between becoming Indonesian citizens or remaining citizens of another country for the sake of their careers and futures.
However, he said, the other side needs to be carefully calculated because citizens who receive the policy have dual loyalty, so it must be tested with clear standards. In addition, there is also the potential disruption to opportunities for Indonesian athletes themselves.
“So indeed (the dual citizenship policy) must be very careful, discussed comprehensively and wisely,” he said.