The concept of “Citizen of the World” has evolved significantly over time, transitioning from its origins as an idea rooted in identity and statelessness to a more digitized and globalized framework. Traditionally, a “Citizen of the World” referred to anyone issued a “World Passport” by the Switzerland-based World Service Authority, founded by Garry Davis in 1953. This document served as an identity tool for stateless individuals, or for those who sought an apolitical symbol of world unity. However, despite its noble intentions, the passport faced rejection by many nations, often dismissed as an “official fantasy.” Davis, inspired by Article 13(2) of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, sought to educate people on world citizenship and foster a vision of a world free from nationalistic conflicts. His personal journey, including renouncing his American citizenship in 1948, was a bold statement on the potential for a unified global identity. However, the idea remained largely symbolic and faced skepticism from governments worldwide. ### The Emergence of the Global Citizen In contrast, the adoption of the **Pact of the Future** during the 79th UN General Assembly marks a shift from the traditional notion of world citizenship to a more contemporary concept: the “Global Citizen.” This term signifies a person who understands and addresses global issues, advocating for a peaceful and sustainable planet. However, within the Pact of the Future, “Global Citizenship” takes on a highly digitized meaning, where individuals are no longer defined by national borders but by their roles in a globalized and interconnected system. This digitization is further outlined in the **Global Digital Compact**, a framework annexed to the Pact of the Future. It emphasizes cooperation in Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance, digital rights, and sustainable development. The compact introduces a roadmap for global AI governance through the creation of an AI Scientific Panel, dialogue on AI policy, and the establishment of a global fund for AI capacity-building. ### Implications for Africa and Marginalized Communities The transition to global citizenship raises critical questions for African and other marginalized populations. Historically, narratives around global identity often exclude the unique cultural and historical contexts of these groups. For instance, the late Congolese President Mobutu Sese Seko’s “authenticity” policy, echoed in Verckys Kiamuangana’s song *Yayweh Nakomitunaka*, highlighted the erasure of African heritage and the politics of color. The song questioned societal biases that associate virtue with whiteness and vice with blackness—a sentiment that still resonates in discussions about global equity. The Vatican’s proscription of the song underscored the tension between advocating for African originality and navigating global narratives that often suppress such expressions. Similarly, the shift towards a global digital framework risks overshadowing regional identities and histories, potentially diluting efforts to preserve African heritage and autonomy. ### The Road Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges The Pact of the Future aims to address global challenges, including economic inequality, peacebuilding, and technological advancement. Leaders have pledged to work toward an equitable economy, enhance science and innovation, and engage youth in shaping the future. However, the framework’s emphasis on digital cooperation and non-state stakeholders also highlights potential risks, such as the loss of sovereignty and cultural identity. As the world moves toward digitized global citizenship, it is essential to ensure that marginalized voices are heard and represented. This requires balancing technological progress with cultural preservation, fostering an inclusive vision of global identity that respects diverse histories and aspirations. By addressing these complexities, global citizenship can become a tool for unity and progress, rather than a mechanism for further marginalization.
Understanding the Shift from World Citizenship to Global Citizenship
