When Multiculturalism Collides with Human Rights

When Multiculturalism Collides with Human Rights

These days, there is widespread anxiety around immigration across the globe. Many majority populations express concerns about cultural change, social cohesion, and national identity. Amidst these debates, I recently stumbled upon an article by sociologist Tariq Modood that does an admirable job suggesting a solution. In his 2025 article, Modood introduces the idea of “multicultural nationalism,” a model that calls for mutual recognition between majority and minority groups, proposing that all cultural identities should be integrated into a shared national narrative.

While Modood’s proposal is grounded in a genuine desire to promote harmony and belonging, it overlooks critical distinctions between cultural practices and their compatibility with fundamental democratic values. As an immigrant who fled the Islamic regime in Iran—a theocratic government that systemically suppresses freedom, enforces gender apartheid, and criminalizes LGBTQ+ existence—I deeply value the human rights protections guaranteed by liberal democracies like Canada. Yet, Modood’s inclusive vision risks inadvertently legitimizing practices that directly undermine those very freedoms.

Multiculturalism ideally enriches societies by fostering understanding and belonging among diverse groups. Modood rightfully emphasizes the importance of minorities feeling integral to the national story. Yet, uncritically embracing all cultural practices threatens the democratic principles that drew me—and countless others—to Western nations in the first place.

In my homeland, religious law restricted women’s rights, suppressed LGBTQ+ identities, and denied children basic protections. Seeking refuge in Canada was not simply a choice—it was a matter of survival and dignity. Watching Canada gradually accept certain parallel legal systems and cultural practices, even under the banner of multicultural inclusion, is deeply concerning.

Modood argues that multiculturalism involves creating “strong equality, strong membership, and strong belonging” (2025, p. 5). However, he underestimates the scenarios where cultural norms inherently contradict democratic freedoms. While addressing majority anxieties is crucial, so too is acknowledging the justified fears of minority individuals—especially those who have fled cultural and political systems that deny basic rights.

Not every cultural practice deserves equal recognition. Liberal democracies must set clear ethical boundaries that differentiate cultural pluralism from cultural relativism. Practices that undermine universal human rights cannot and should not be validated under the guise of inclusion.

Authentic multiculturalism demands the courage to draw ethical lines. Inclusion must never become a vehicle for the oppression of the vulnerable. Only then can democracies uphold the very freedoms that make them worth migrating to.

References

Modood, T. (2025). Multiculturalism, nationalism and depolarisation. Nations and Nationalism, 31(1), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1111/nana.13124