Chapter 1. Introduction statelessness, which answers sub question C. The conclusions of the two chapters in Part II also draw on the analysis in those chapters to indicate what the respective organizations’ legal instruments offer to understanding the concept of nationality. Hence, sub question D is to some extent included here as well. Part III of this book presents comparisons, reflections, conclusions and recommendations. Chapter 5 concentrates on identifying how European law contributes to preventing and solving statelessness in Europe (part of main question) by comparing the efforts of the CoE and the EU while also considering international (human rights) law. Chapter 6 concludes with final observations on how all of this furthers our understanding of the concept of nationality (sub question D and main question) and some recommendations and reflections on preventing and solving statelessness in Europe. 1.2. R ESEARCH METHODS AND SOURCES The method and approach applied primarily in this project is that of doctrinal and critical legal research, because this study aims to research the way in which the position of individuals in the (nation-)state system has been legally categorized and defined using nationality and statelessness. It therefore considers the tensions between practice and law. Law is an expression of power relations, and this study critiques these power relations. This means that relevant legal instruments, case law, and other legal sources are systematized and analyzed while considering legal theory. However, the historical background and today’s reality in which these legal instruments operate is taken into account where possible and relevant. Furthermore, and therefore, this research involves literature study of secondary sources from academic authors, which are assessed critically for their relevance and “precise and accurate fit” with the research question.12 As a complementary source, (policy) reports of organizations such as UNHCR13, as well as of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are used. Throughout this book, national laws of certain countries are sometimes used to demonstrate the implementation of certain treaty obligations, or to otherwise illustrate practice in nationality matters and the development thereof at the national level. These should be treated as examples and illustrations based on national legal practice, which aim to contribute to a better understanding of the issues and legal instruments discussed, looking beyond legal constructs and considering impacts to some extent.14 12 13 14 Marnix Snel, Meester(s) over bronnen. Een empirische studie naar kwaliteitseisen, gevaren en onderzoekstechnieken die betrekking hebben op het brongebruik in academisch juridisch-dogmatisch onderzoek [Master(s on) resources] (Boom juridisch 2016) 190–191. UNHCR is of particular relevance to this research, because it has an official mandate with regard to the issue. Th is is explored further in para 1.5.1 (under the header ‘Refugees and the stateless’). The importance of doing this in human rights related research is highlighted in Siobhán McInerneyLankford, Legal Methodologies and Human Rights Research: Challenges and Opportunities’ in Bård Intersentia 7