From cultural diversity to cultural pluralism

It became a habit of mine, to regularly re-read the “Declaration of Cultural Diversity” every couple of month. While we all know, that politicians sometimes use a very vague language and that the UN – which is based on compromise – in particular has had the tendency to water down firm statements, the declaration is a clear notice of the importance of cultural diversity. Proclaimed by the General Conference of the UNESCO in November 2001, the declaration and its 20 points of the annexed action plan are still valid today and I wam planning to review each of its parts from today´s perspective over time.
For now, I just like to quote Article 2, which states also, that we have to be “willing” to live together and include all diverse groups in our society.

Article 2 – From cultural diversity to cultural pluralism

In our increasingly diverse societies, it is essential to ensure harmonious interaction among people and groups with plural, varied and dynamic cultural identities as well as their willingness to live together. Policies for the inclusion and participation of all citizens are guarantees of social cohesion, the vitality of civil society and peace. Thus defined, cultural pluralism gives policy expression to the reality of cultural diversity. Indissociable from a democratic framework, cultural pluralism is conducive to cultural exchange and to the flourishing of creative capacities that sustain public life.

#migration #CulturalDiversity #inclusion