A multicultural approach regards a philosophy that gives value to the principle of cultural diversity and supports the right of different cultural and ethnic groups to retain their cultural identities while ensuring their equitable access to society, encompassing constitutional principles and commonly shared values prevailing in the society.
It promotes the coexistence and mutual respect of different cultures and emphasizes the importance of valuing and celebrating the contributions of all cultural groups. Also, it can be seen both as a response to the fact of cultural pluralism in modern democracies and a way of compensating cultural groups for past exclusion, discrimination, and oppression. Most modern democracies comprise members with diverse cultural viewpoints, practices, and contributions.
The multicultural approach has gained a lot of relevance lately due to the failure of the liberal democratic view to involve citizens acknowledging the different inequalities they suffered as groups. In multiculturalism, although being an integral and recognizable part of the whole, diverse members of society can maintain their particular identities while residing in the collective.
Multiculturalism also raises important questions for citizens, public administrators, and political leaders about balancing recognition for groups with the interests of the entire society. By asking for recognition of and respect for cultural differences, multiculturalism provides one possible response to the question of how to increase the participation of previously oppressed groups.
What societal impact does the multicultural approach have?
Multiculturalism has impacts various aspects of social development, including politics, economy, and education.
Mainly, it can serve as a channel amongst different groups of people to reduce bias, prejudice, and negative stereotypes caused by misunderstanding and poor communications. This can be seen especially in schools, workplaces, and countries, which are composed of all kinds of cultural, racial, and ethnic groups.
To achieve sustainable development, cultural diversity has an unquestioned role. A multicultural apprach can serve as a bridge and a link between the three other dimensions of sustainable development – social inclusion, environmental protection, and economic growth-, or a direct driver that stimulates sustainable changes and promotes sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Multiculturalism also can have an impact in more areas such as fostering inclusivity, creating environments where diverse backgrounds are valued and social cohesion is strengthened, while reducing divisions. It enhances creativity and innovation through the exchange of ideas across cultures, leading to novel solutions, and cultivates mutual understanding and appreciation that promote tolerance and harmony. Economically, it drives growth by expanding trade, attracting investment, and opening opportunities, while individuals benefit from personal growth through expanded worldviews, empathy, and cultural exposure. Additionally, multiculturalism highlights the interconnectedness of cultures, emphasizing their historical and ongoing influences on one another, thereby challenging notions of cultural isolation.
