Multiculturalism in the Muslim world: A case of Pakistan

Most literature on the intersection of multiculturalism and Islam is positioned in Western contexts where the social participation of Muslims is closely related to acculturation issues and their effect on the dominant groups in society. This chapter discusses the relevance of multiculturalism to Muslim societies and then explores how the notion of multiculturalism has been understood and practised in Pakistan – a Muslim-majority society that is also characterised by linguistic, ethnic and regional diversity. Using the lens of multiculturalism, we examine Pakistan’s nation-state building process, the recent trends in Islamisation and educational practices, and discuss the challenges and implications for establishing a more multicultural, inclusive society in the Muslim world. Copyright © 2021 selection and editorial matter, Christine Halse and Kerry J. Kennedy; individual chapters, the contributors.