Interculturality

Introduction

The prefix “inter-”, from Latin, refers to what exists in-between or to a relationship based on exchange, sharing, or reciprocity. The term interculture is often associated with educational approaches, social policies, and attitudes linked to managing migration, with the aim of reducing conflict and fostering peaceful coexistence.

The concept of interculture is increasingly moving beyond the sole context of migration. Cultural diversity is no longer viewed as something only between distinct cultures, but as something also present within each culture. Intercultural thinking focuses less on fixed cultural identities and more on culture as a dynamic, evolving, and creative process shaped through interaction. Intercultural education is addressed to everyone, not only to migrants. It also involves local populations, encouraging reflection on openness, inclusion, and shared civic life. Adopting an intercultural perspective implies rethinking educational approaches, not only to form citizens of a specific nation, but citizens of a wider, interconnected world.

Migration and the language used to describe it play a central role. Migration is a longstanding characteristic of human history and has continually contributed to shaping collective identity. Despite this, political choices frequently present migration as an “emergency.” Such a narrow perspective prevents migration from being recognised as a normal and ongoing part of social, cultural, and economic life. As a result, societies face challenges in adapting to current realities and embracing change. When the term politics is used, it refers to its meaningful sense: a shared responsibility and a collective commitment to the well-being of society. In many cases, however, political processes risk becoming mechanisms that no longer support reflection on collective needs or shared values. This can create a sense of disconnection from reality. Intercultural issues emerge in many dimensions of everyday life. Even within communities where people live in proximity, cultural misunderstandings and social divisions may appear – not because of physical distance, but due to limited dialogue, insufficient recognition, and a lack of shared experiences.