Superdiversity: How migration is changing our society

The 21st century will be a century of superdiversity. Ethnic-cultural diversity in Europe is increasing, even though governments are desperately trying to curb further migration. In cities like Brussels or Rotterdam, people with roots in migration already form the majority of city dwellers. In the next decade, this will also be a reality in Antwerp.

Migration changes our society. In half a century we evolved into a real migration society. Urbanity today means living in superdiversity. However, this diversity is still sensitive. It evokes uncertainty and resistance. We continue to think in outdated us-and-them divisions, while reality is much more hybrid and complex.

How does superdiversity change our society? How do we live together in superdiversity? And do we ask the right questions? The risk of poverty among people of other ethnic origins is unacceptably high and many young people have difficulty finding their place. Yet, social debates still too often get stuck in rearguard battles and symbolic issues such as the headscarf.

How can we better use the potential of superdiversity and avoid the pitfalls? Because that is the only meaningful option for tomorrow. From an active pluralism, living in superdiversity is not possible without debate, dialogue and contradiction. It requires mutual openness and dialogue between everyone who lives here. It requires mutual involvement. Because only together will we create the future of this country and of our cities.