Given the present context of globalization, societies are becoming less and less homogeneous and therefore more and more complex and diverse. As a result different systems of values come into contact and, in spite of not always matching on all points, need to be made to connect if we are to achieve an ‚inclusive' society. In addition, however, it also needs to be emphasized that the increasing degree of diversity affects the identity of the different societies in Europe, as today they find it less obvious to cite the concept of the homogeneous nation-state than they did in the past.

This book will look into specific hot issues now plaguing our complex pluralist societies will shed light on the policies pursued by the authorities in Canada and Flanders. These two separate geographic regions, with different points of departure and with distinct social and political climates, are adopting diversity policies which by and large, and allowing for similarities as well as dissimilarities, have the same expectations of ‚newcomers': coping abilities, personal responsibility and active citizenship. What do governments offer in return and what are their motives? To what extent have governments been successful as inclusive society builders? How will they outline a connective policy to meet the challenge posed by a number of intractable problems?