Solutions

At the level of larger groups

In the end emancipation has to be fought for by the involved groups themselves but it makes a difference whether the majority dissociates itself from it or wishes to open itself.

Paul Scheffer, NRC (Dutch newspaper), March 25th 2000

Nevertheless, pluralism is promoted by those who strongly express the interest of their own interest group but at the same time when necessary critically evaluate their own community …

Paul Scheffer, NRC (Dutch newspaper), March 25th 2000

One has to realise that tolerance in the end is a gesture that may be withdrawn if so desired. Hence, in dealing with minorities ultimately not tolerance has to preval but equality. It is about full citizenship.

Paul Scheffer, NRC (Dutch newspaper), March 25th 2000

At the level of the individual

Solutions on the individual level may only result from a willingness to change. A change values, norms and attitudes cannot be forced if it is possible to do so at all.

Over the years I have learned to recognise a probable personality structure that is ideal for migrants … practical, a sunny nature, easy going, a solid base, no questions of identity, open, down-to-earth and having a sense of humour. What I have experienced … is the enormous importance of immediate involvement in society, whether someone is ready for it or not. That is in my opinion the only efficient way to make a good start here … [through a] buddy system.

Nazmiye Oral, de Volkskrant (Dutch newspaper), July 18th 2011

A multiculturalist for this reason continuously focuses on how it does succeed, on the spots of light, how it is also possible, just because it has to. Direct the spot on the commonality, the centre, on what we share, the moderate because people find one another in that area.

Harriet Duurvoort, de Volkskrant (Dutch newspaper), March 26th 2012