CChapter 3: Comparative analysis of nationality laws voluntary acquisition of a new nationality effectively operates as the voluntary renunciation of the original nationality.149 If this is the only circumstance by which a person can give up their nationality at their own initiative, such an arrangement provides a strong guarantee against statelessness.150 However, it may also serve to constrict a person’s ability to change nationality, in practice, where the state of intended naturalisation requires prior renunciation of the original nationality. Approximately half of the countries in the MENA region have a provision in their nationality law which is dedicated to renunciation. Of these, all but four only allow a person to renounce their nationality if there is no threat of statelessness – i.e. renunciation is only possible if the person already holds or has been assured of acquiring another nationality. For example, in Lebanon, the requisite provision deals specifically with renunciation in the context of marriage to a foreigner, stating: “The Lebanese woman marries a foreigner remains Lebanese until she requests the striking off of her registration in the census records on account of acquiring the nationality of her 149 - See, for instance, Article 11 and 15(c), UAE Federal Law No. 17 Concerning Nationality and Passports; Article 11, Kuwait Nationality Law, 1959. 150 - Note that article 7 of the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness provides that nationality shall not be renounced unless the person has or acquires another nationality. 115