Multiculturalism and the Triple Classification of Minorities in the Arab World

Multiculturalism and the Triple Classification of Minorities in the Arab World Dr. Hassan AssiAcademic and Researcher in Anthropology The question of how states deal with ethnic minorities and indigenous peoples is a critical and sensitive issue around the world. It is often said that we live in an era of "identity politics" or "recognition politics," where minorities are more likely to demand forms of formal recognition and facilities, such as linguistic rights, cultural or religious autonomy, regional autonomy, or increased political representation. However, the nature of these minority demands and states' reactions to them vary greatly from region to region. How Are these issues being understood and discussed in the Arab world? What concepts do people use to describe issues of ethnic diversity?What are the hopes or fears that drive their response to minority demands? What criteria do they use to distinguish between fair and unjust facilities, progressive and reactionary claims, or deserving and undeserving minorities?