Superdiversity, Policy and Governance in Europe: Multi-scalar Perspectives

Immigration has transformed the social, economic, political, and cultural landscapes of global cities, leading to superdiversity. This insightful volume explores how superdiversity has shaped policy development and considers challenges for the future.

Format: Hardback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 21 October 2020
Publisher: Policy Press

Immigration has had a profound impact on the social, economic, political, and cultural landscapes of global cities like London, Melbourne, Milan, and Amsterdam. The term 'superdiversity' aptly describes a new era of migration-driven demographic diversifications and the associated complexities that arise. Superdiversity is not just a future possibility but is already a reality in many neighborhoods, cities, countries, and regions. However, the implications of superdiversity for governance and policy have received limited attention until now.

This insightful volume, originally published as a special issue of Policy & Politics, brings together contributions from experts across Europe to explore the ways in which superdiversity has shaped the development of policy and to consider the challenges that lie ahead.

In the first chapter, the editors provide an overview of superdiversity and its significance in shaping the contemporary world. They argue that superdiversity represents a shift from traditional models of diversity, which were often based on national or ethnic backgrounds, to a more complex and multifaceted understanding of diversity. The chapter highlights the challenges and opportunities that superdiversity presents for governance and policy.

The following chapter explores the impact of superdiversity on social cohesion and integration. The authors argue that superdiversity can create both tensions and opportunities for social cohesion and integration. They discuss the importance of promoting cultural exchange, understanding, and respect to foster social harmony and reduce social tensions. The chapter also examines the role of policymakers in creating inclusive and supportive environments for diverse communities.

The following chapter examines the impact of superdiversity on the labor market and economic development. The authors argue that superdiversity can bring new skills, perspectives, and innovative ideas to the labor market, which can lead to economic growth and job creation. However, they also note that superdiversity can create challenges for employers, such as language barriers and cultural differences, which can impact productivity and job satisfaction. The chapter explores the role of policymakers in promoting inclusive and equitable economic development through policies that support diversity and inclusion.

The following chapter examines the impact of superdiversity on education and learning. The authors argue that superdiversity can create new opportunities for education and learning, but it can also pose challenges for educators. They discuss the importance of providing inclusive and equitable education that caters to the diverse needs of students from different backgrounds. The chapter also examines the role of policymakers in promoting educational equity and diversity through policies that support access to education, language learning, and cultural exchange.

The following chapter examines the impact of superdiversity on public health and well-being. The authors argue that superdiversity can create new health challenges and opportunities for public health. They discuss the importance of promoting health equity and reducing health disparities among diverse populations. The chapter also explores the role of policymakers in developing policies that address the health needs of diverse communities.

The following chapter examines the impact of superdiversity on urban planning and design. The authors argue that superdiversity can create new challenges and opportunities for urban planning and design. They discuss the importance of creating inclusive and accessible urban spaces that accommodate the diverse needs of residents. The chapter also explores the role of policymakers in promoting sustainable and resilient urban development through policies that support diversity and inclusion.

In conclusion, this insightful volume provides a comprehensive exploration of the ways in which superdiversity has shaped the development of policy and considers the challenges that lie ahead the future. The contributions from experts across Europe offer valuable insights and perspectives on the complex and multifaceted nature of superdiversity and its implications for governance and policy. By highlighting the importance of promoting cultural exchange, understanding, and respect, fostering social cohesion and integration, promoting inclusive and equitable economic development, providing inclusive and equitable education, promoting health equity and reducing health disparities, and creating inclusive and accessible urban spaces, policymakers can work towards sustainable and resilient urban development that benefits all residents.

Weight: 420g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781447352051