North Macedonia. Valentin Rakip was stateless because his mother didn’t register his birth, and his father didn’t acknowledge paternity. After a 12-year legal battle, he finally received nationality and can start building the life he always dreamed of. © UNHCR/Robert Atanasovski ACTION 8: Issue nationality documentation to those with entitlement to it to prevent statelessness DESIRED OUTCOME No States have populations that are entitled to nationality under law but are unable to obtain documentary proof of nationality. Context Individuals may be left stateless because they cannot acquire documents that prove their nationality, even if they are entitled to nationality under the country’s nationality law. Denial of nationality documentation leading to statelessness can occur due to discrimination against particular groups. Existing information indicates that this is a major cause of statelessness. What needs to be done? It is vital that those who are entitled to nationality receive nationality documentation. Procedures to obtain such documentation must be accessible, affordable and implemented in a non-discriminatory 28 manner. Cumbersome, lengthy procedures and onerous requirements for applicants are to be avoided. GLOBAL ACTION PLAN TO END STATELESSNESS 2.0