to the integration of societies. This is especially the case for children. States should allow children who have acquired different citizenships at birth to retain these.86 Children who are in this situation should not be prohibited from holding such multiple citizenships throughout the course of their lives.87 However, the impact of multiple citizenships on the integration of societies can vary considerably depending on various factors, including history and bilateral relations. The optimal policy with regard to multiple citizenships depends on the context and should be formulated based on its effects on the rights of individuals, the integration of society and friendly, including good neighbourly, relations. Effective participation 38. The process of integration can only be facilitated if opportunities for participation are provided to all members of society. Effective participation in public affairs and all aspects of social, economic and cultural life, including of persons belonging to minorities, is both a right in itself and an essential precondition for equal opportunities in practice. The process of integration requires that all members of society, whether they belong to minorities or majorities, interact through active engagement. This is directly linked to the effective participation by all in the development of society in its various aspects, which will also contribute to the perception that the process of integration is legitimate. For this reason, a key element of integration is the right of all, including persons belonging to minorities, to effectively participate in public affairs and in cultural, social and economic life.88 Guaranteeing this right in law and in fact is a precondition for implementing the principle of equal opportunities. In practice, this should aim to ensure that persons belonging to minorities enjoy rights and take on responsibilities, such as respecting the law, on an equal footing with persons belonging to majorities. 86 87 88 European Convention on Nationality, article 14(1). Convention on the Rights of the Child, article 7. FCNM, article 15. Guidelines on Integration of Diverse Societies 45