The Notion of “Diversity Advantage” According to the Council of Europe

Diversity is a fundamental characteristic of modern cosmopolitan cities. Increasingly defined as an advantage, the notion of diversity can be used to promote tolerance and the recognition of cultural differences, but it cannot ignore the fact that immigrant populations are disproportionately affected by poor working conditions and financial insecurity. In promoting the idea of “diversity advantage”, we must pay attention not only to minorities but also to the cultural majority, especially those who work in increasingly diverse urban environments and especially those who are faced with sub-standard working conditions and new forms of risk. The ethical basis of the intercultural paradigm is also discussed, along with some of the factors that explain the breakdown in traditional forms of social and political solidarity.