Mnogoznačje Istarskog multikulturalizma
The Multiple Meanings of Istrian Multiculturalism

Summary/Abstract: In this paper the author analyzes the similarities between European Union's public discourse on multiculturalism and the discourse on multiculturalism in Istria. The starting point is the understanding of the processes of Europeization, which include the European Union member countries as well as the aspiring member countries; the mentioned processes imply not only the implementation of the European Union legislative but also the local reaction to these processes, including changes on the level of identity. Analyzing the Istrian rhetoric of multiculturalism, the author finds similarities between the discourse on multiculturalism in the European Union and that in Istria, both characterized by a basic dichotomy – inclusion of some groups and exclusion of others. And while the EU discourse on multiculturalism, joined under the slogan "Unity in Diversity", largely excludes immigrants, the similar interpretation of multiculturalism can be perceived in Istria, where, according to statements of some participants in the research, multiculturalism means the coexistence of Croats and Italians in Istria (but also of other groups that managed to coexist in the territory of Istria throughout history). However, the newcomers are expected to assimilate into the already existing Istrian multiculturalism, a strategy completely different from the nominal support and recognition of diversity that multiculturalism implies.

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