Question

“An alternative to the nation-state, then, is the “state nation”, where various “nations” - be they ethnic, religious, linguistic or indigenous identities-can coexist peacefully and cooperatively in a single state polity.”

What factors are required to build enduring state-nations?

Answer 1

• Explicit efforts are required to end the cultural exclusion of diverse groups and to build multiple and complementary identities.
• Such responsive policies provide incentives to build a feeling of unity in diversity.
• Citizens can find the institutional and political space to identify with both their country and their other cultural identities.
• Citizens can find the opportunity to build their trust in common institutions and to participate in and support democratic politics.