Policy of multiculturalism: Protection or control of ethnic identities?

Abstract

Policies of multiculturalism are not an inheritance of modern and liberal state, although it is often concluded in the public. Historical empires states of ′old′ democracy, colonial and immigrant societies, as well as eastern European countries after the experiment with communism confronted with a problem of ′control′ of multiculturalism. Models of the multicultural policy are numerous and dependable on political, social and cultural circumstances in different parts of the world, and often culturally similar states develop different multicultural policies. Historical and contemporary experiences related to the multicultural policies are discussed in the paper and the last part deals conditions in which contemporary Serbia responds on requirements and challenges of its own multiculturalism.

Keywords

• multiculturalism
• ethno-cultural (national) minorities
• policy of multiculturality