Most modern democracies have been 'multicultural' for around 50 years, but race and immigration issues in those countries are as controversial as ever. Minority groups are, at the same time, generally the most disadvantaged and poorest sections of the community and often feel like 'strangers in their own land'.
This book explores why multiculturalism has not yet succeeded and why people of different faiths and ethnicities are feared and demonized. It suggests that the focus on controlling behaviour and promoting equalities has been insufficient and failed to tackle underlying attitudes and values. The continued segregation and separation of different communities, both in physical and social terms, has denied opportunities for the development of mutual trust and tolerance. It also suggests that we need a stronger concept of citizenship which can emphasise the commonalities of different groups and whilst this will impose more responsibilties through the establishment of clear common values, it will also allow for greater clarity about the separate cultural distinctions to be protected. The book sets out the emerging practice of community cohesion in the UK, and draws upon parallels and complementary developments in other countries.

Coming to Terms With Change
The Journey to Community Cohesion
Changing Conceptions of Multiculturalism
Prejudice, Discrimination and the 'Fear of Difference'
Identity, Values and Citizenship
Developing a Programme for Community Cohesion
Bibliography

TED CANTLE was appointed in 2001 by the UK Home Secretary to Chair the Community Cohesion Review Team, and to lead the review into the causes of disturbances in a number of northern UK towns and cities. The subsequent 'Cantle Report' hit the headlines when it drew attention to the 'parallel lives' of different commuities. It went on to make around 70 recommndations and the concept of 'community cohesion' was subsequently adopted by the UK government. Cantle is now regarded as the founding father of 'community cohesion' and now leads the Institute of Community Cohesion, UK. During 30 years in local government, Cantle has held a wide range of senior positions and was appointed to many national bodies, focusing on urban regeneration and sustainable development.