Applies international political theory to statelessness as an ethical and political concern Stateless persons are increasingly a concern of governments, international agencies and NGOs. Now, Kerry Staples supplies a much-needed political theorisation of statelessness. Her membership theory framework combines theory and contemporary case studies to demonstrate the connection between the state membership, the burdens of statelessness and the situation of stateless persons. Key Features: * A critical contribution to understanding the principles and practices of membership and protection in 21st century international politics * Bridges empirical and legal accounts of statelessness and existing theoretical accounts of membership, rights and protection * Essential reading for those interested in the future study of international political theory, global justice and human rights