A new proposal in the United States could significantly change how citizenship is granted to children born on its soil, including those of Pakistani and other foreign nationals.
A US senator has introduced a constitutional amendment seeking to end automatic citizenship for individuals born in the country, challenging the long-standing interpretation of the 14th Amendment.
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Under current law, anyone born in the United States is granted citizenship regardless of their parents’ immigration status, a principle commonly known as birthright citizenship.
The senator argued that this interpretation was never intended to apply to cases involving illegal immigration, claiming that the system has been widely “exploited” due to loose border controls.
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While supporting legal immigration pathways, he stressed the need to tighten citizenship rules and limit automatic eligibility based solely on place of birth.
The proposal also aligns with broader immigration policies associated with Donald Trump, particularly efforts to strengthen border enforcement and reduce undocumented migration.
If passed, the amendment would permanently alter the US Constitution, making it more difficult for courts, including the Supreme Court of the United States, to overturn such changes in the future.
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Experts say the move could trigger a major political and legal debate across the US, as well as concern in countries like Pakistan, where many citizens seek opportunities abroad.
The proposal is still at an early stage, and any constitutional amendment would require significant political support, including approval from Congress and ratification by states.
