Residenssian

Residenssian is a neologism used in political theory to describe a residence-based model of social and political inclusion. In this framework, access to public services, civic rights, and certain privileges is anchored to where a person resides, with duration and locality shaping eligibility. Variants may apply to physical residence within a country or region, and, in some discussions, to defined digital spaces that confer rights within a community.

Origin and usage: The term has appeared in late 2010s and 2020s debates on migration governance, urban sovereignty, and digital governance. It is typically presented as a theoretical option, a thought experiment, or a policy proposal rather than an established regime.

Core features: Residency tiers determine access to services and participation. Eligibility is defined by residence criteria such as duration of stay, property or tenancy, tax presence, or community ties. Administrative infrastructure would require registries, verification, and appeals. Governance could involve local councils, regional bodies, or cross-border associations.

Applications: Urban planning pilots to encourage long-term settlement, fiscal policy models tied to residency, and digital residencies in online communities that confer localized governance rights. The concept is often used to probe questions of belonging and sovereignty.

Criticism and challenges: Critics warn that residency-based models may exclude newcomers, create bureaucratic burdens, and raise equal-protection concerns. Others worry about surveillance, legitimacy, and implementation feasibility.