Voluntary responsibilities of being a citizen typically include activities that contribute to society and reflect civic engagement, such as:
- Voting - Participating in elections to express one's opinions and influence government decisions.
- Community Service - Engaging in volunteer work to help improve the community, such as working with local charities or participating in neighborhood clean-ups.
- Staying Informed - Being knowledgeable about local, national, and international issues, and understanding how government works.
- Participating in Public Discourse - Engaging in discussions about civic issues, attending town hall meetings, or joining civic organizations.
- Advocacy - Supporting causes or policies that one believes in, which can include lobbying or campaigning for specific legislation.
Obligatory responsibilities, on the other hand, are those duties that citizens are legally required to fulfill, and they may include:
- Paying Taxes - Contributing to government revenue, which supports public services and infrastructure.
- Obeying Laws - Following the laws set by local, state, and federal governments to maintain order and protect rights.
- Serving on a Jury - Participating in jury duty when called, which helps ensure a fair trial.
- Registering for Selective Service (in some countries) - For eligible males, this is a requirement to enlist in the military if needed.
- Attending School (in some jurisdictions) - Ensuring that children receive an education is often mandated by law.
These responsibilities reflect the balance of rights and duties that come with citizenship.