Legal Definitions - nationalize

The term "nationalize" has two distinct meanings in a legal and governmental context:

• 1. To bring an industry or resource under governmental control or ownership.

  This refers to the act of a government taking over a private company, industry, or resource, making it publicly owned and operated. The assets, management, and operations shift from private hands to the state.

  • Example 1: During a severe economic crisis, a country's government decides to nationalize its struggling banking sector.

    Explanation: In this scenario, the government assumes ownership and control of the private banks, transforming them into state-owned institutions to stabilize the financial system and prevent widespread collapse.

  • Example 2: A newly elected government, aiming to ensure equitable access to essential services, votes to nationalize all private water utility companies.

    Explanation: The previously privately owned and operated water supply companies are brought under government ownership and management, with the goal of providing water services to all citizens under public control.

  • Example 3: To protect a vital natural resource from over-exploitation by foreign corporations, a developing nation chooses to nationalize its diamond mines.

    Explanation: The government takes control of the diamond mining operations, which were previously run by private or international companies, to manage the resource for the benefit of its own citizens and economy.

• 2. To grant a person the status of a citizen; to naturalize.

  This meaning refers to the process by which an individual, who was not born a citizen of a country, is legally granted citizenship by that country. This process is commonly known as naturalization.

  • Example 1: After fulfilling all residency requirements and passing a citizenship test, an immigrant from Vietnam was successfully nationalized by Australia.

    Explanation: The individual, previously a permanent resident, was legally granted Australian citizenship, acquiring all the rights and responsibilities that come with it.

  • Example 2: A renowned scientist, originally from India, was nationalized by Germany to facilitate their work on a critical research project and integrate them fully into the scientific community.

    Explanation: Germany granted the scientist citizenship, allowing them to become a legal citizen of Germany, often after meeting specific criteria related to their contribution or residency.

  • Example 3: Children born to foreign diplomats in a host country are typically not automatically citizens of that country, but they may apply to be nationalized later in life if they meet specific criteria.

    Explanation: These individuals, not citizens by birthright, would undergo the formal process to acquire citizenship of the host country, thereby becoming legally recognized citizens.