I’m British. I now live in Spain.
A colleague was surprised when I said I would fight for Spain if need be.
Having been born in the UK, as far as I’m concerned, of course I’d fight for Britain.
Recent surveys suggest only about one third of people think like that. Many caveat it with a ‘well it would depend if I thought it was a just war’.
Logically therefore, most would not fight.
So Putin could invade without much resistance. Or Trump.
Whilst Spain might seem unlikely to be invaded (would another Civil War be more likely?), imagine Islamists in Morocco decided to reclaim their land from the fourteenth century. Would most Spaniards just surrender?
If you want to live in another country, I think they can reasonably ask you to repay that gift with loyalty. How can this be best achieved? Probably the same principles apply to existing citizens.
I think we should explain the following to all immigrants:
We offer a society with equal rights for men and women. Women must be treated equally, in the house and outside.
We expect everyone to integrate, to understand the national culture, and speak the language.
Political extremes are not welcome: there must be an understanding and acceptance of our democratic values
We are a primarily Christian country, linked to a secular society. Religion is not compulsory. Immigrants should understnad and accpet the ‘home religion’, but may keep theri own faith. Provided it includes tolerance of other faiths.
Childen will be educated, boys and girls alike, based on our culture and traditions.
Both countries have a legal system – alternatives such as Sharia law will not be allowed. If you commit crimes you will not be welcome.
We expect high standards of behaviour, traditional good manners, consideration for others.
Much of the above should be applied to existing citizens.
In return we hope to offer a place in a civilised country, good values, a ‘social contract’ with all residents. That starts with opportunity, improvement through hard work: access to healthcare, a ‘safety net’ if you fall on hard times.
Hopefully it is an attractive package.
However it also includes an obligation to fight for this country if necessary.
People should have to sign contract stating that they understand the obligation, and will volonteer to fight if need be.
Men could be in the front line: if this is not thought appropriate for women, they can run logistics, drive military vehicles, act as drone pilots and so on.
A bit like potential conscription, we should likewise make it clear to people born here that they have the same obligation.
Would I really ‘walk the talk’? Yes.
I am aiming to do a ‘tough mudder’ (Spartan) next year, but I may be deemed too old for front line duty.
My background is healthcare management, so I’d offer to run a field hospital. Actually I’d offer to act as a stretcher bearer or ambulance driver.
Heaven forbid it comes to this, but the omens globally at the moment, specifically in Eastern Europe, do not look good, And we may need to stand up to be counted in a substantial way, and honour a duty to our allies.
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