Multiculturalism and interculturalism policies in the Western Balkans countries as a tool to counter hate crimes

Hate crime is the most severe expression of discrimination, and a core of the fundamental rights abuse. International organizations reports have shown that a combination of varied measures is necessary to effectively counter hate crimes. This paper will attempt to emphasize that in addition to the criminal justice response, an effective way to prevent hate crimes is the strengthening of multiculturalism and interculturalism policies that support efforts to welcome cultural diversity in our societies and make use of it to foster social cohesion. Upon the literature review of multiculturalism and interculturalism and their application in the European context, this paper uses a comparative approach to analyze key elements of such policies (schools, media, culture, and political participation) in the Western Balkans. For this purpose, reports of different international organizations are analyzed. In conclusion, I propose that policies for the management of diversity implemented in all countries are not satisfactory not because multiculturalism and interculturalism are not suitable for the region, but because before implementing policies to promote cultural diversity and the rights of persons belonging to national minorities, at the very least the normalization of relations between states and the indispensable desecuritization of the national minorities issues is needed.