Calibrating Cultural Lenses: Socio-Economic Participation, Identity and Migration Policy Shifts

Abstract

This piece deals with the integration of "new minorities" in Western Europe in light of recent debates on multiculturalism and a perceived policy shift against such policies. I briefly analyze some of the implications of the policy shift, in light of three themes often found in narratives on multiculturalism and integration: first, the existence of relevant coincidences between socio-economic and cultural groups (pertinent in the case of migrants); secondly, a linkage between socio-economic participation with cultural accommodation policies which I consider as a principle necessary; and thirdly a possible relation between socio-economic integration, cultural accommodation and the prevention of collective violence.I argue that better definition of terms and a calibration of the ‘cultural lenses’ through which groups are understood would improve the debate on multicultural policies in relation to migrant integration. In practical terms, it would facilitate a more rigorous evaluation of the impact of these policies. From a normative perspective, human rights principles such as freedom of opinion are necessary to balance multicultural policies in relation to migrant integration. In addition, I reflect briefly on migration policy issues from a human security standpoint.