CChapter 3: Comparative analysis of nationality laws the region’s substantive nationality provisions has now been dealt with. Nevertheless, a few further comments are due. Firstly, it is important to draw out from the above discussion a number of elements of MENA nationality policy that raise serious questions when set against international legal standards of non-discrimination. Secondly, it is worthwhile looking at some procedural questions surrounding nationality policy, including such matters as the issuance of proof of nationality (when and by whom) as well as the availability and effectiveness of an appeals mechanism should an individual assert that the nationality rules have been applied incorrectly or arbitrarily. These issues are dealt with in the following paragraphs. 3.4.1. Discrimination By virtue of its very purpose, nationality law makes distinctions between “us” and “them” – a process which involves ascertaining which people are deemed to be connected to the state, belong to its political community, share its values and be worthy of full membership, including assumption of the rights, benefits and responsibilities associated. This is a context in which it can be all too easy to rely on distinctions and qualifying criteria that run counter to international standards of equal treatment. In the 129