Introduction

In addition differences in socio-economic conditions play an important role, whether they are the result of cultural differences or not.

A key question for all parties involved is how to keep one’s own identity. The difficulty in this domain is illustrated by the stories of lots of second and third generations of immigrants who are treated as foreigners – even urged to ‘return home’ – while they are born and raised in the country in question and have its nationality as well.

The problems range from specific issues (employment, education, housing) through legal issues (recognition as refugee for instance) to individual attitudes (integration and acceptance).

The even bigger question is how the resulting problems may be solved. Although they are rather substantial, proven solutions do not exist. Multi-faceted problems demand multi-faceted solutions and hence, creativity, adaptation and learning in practice (stumbling on), even at huge human costs.

Ultimately the solution to multicultural society comes down to the individual person and his or her attitudes, something you cannot guide or control. What you can do is to be open about it, to discuss the positive and negative aspects, to show unfounded assumptions and to get rid of empty rhetoric. The whole society from individual through organisations to government is involved, whether you like it or not.

Overview

This document discusses

1. the relevant concept of culture

2. the problems

3. some perceptions

4. directions for solutions