SS Chap 7 : Managing Socio-Cultural and Socio-Economic Diversity

Why does the government 'manage' cultural diversity?

• To maintain harmony in a diverse society

• To reduce tensions that exist in a diverse society

• To ensure that all citizens feel a sense of belonging to their country.

• All of the above

A country that practices the policy of assimilation is:

• Singapore

• France

• USA

• Britain

The assimilation policy is based on the principle of state secularism.

Secularism means the adoption of Catholic church practices into the laws and practices of the government.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Yes, the French have to abide by the principle of state secularism.

But secularism means the clear separation of religious affairs from governance and not favouring one religion over another.

Why did the French government implement the "Diversity Charter" for companies?

(You may select more than one reason)

• To raise employers' awareness of recruiting employees from diverse backgrounds

• To encourage the assimilation of new French immigrants

• To allow immigrants to speak French and communicate with colleagues in the workplace

• All of the above

Answer explanation

Despite implementing the Diversity Charter, the there is still a difference in unemployment rates of the French natives and immigrant workers.

French natives --> 7.8% unemployed

French immigrants --> 13.1% unemployed

All children in France, regardless of citizenship are required to attend school until 16 years old.

Adaptation classes are introduced to children of immigrants to help them improve their French so that they can be assimilated into French society/schools.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

In addition, there is no discussion about religion except in History, Literature, Philosophy and Art classes.

(Unlike in Singapore where we may commemorate religious festivals such as Thaipusam or Hari Raya)

In France, all immigrants must be able to speak (a)   at the workplace so that they are able to communicate with their colleagues.

 

For immigrants seeking citizenship through naturalization in France, they go through the following so that new citizens are able to assimilate into society:

• Four-day civic training course in French principles and values

• Free language courses to learn French

• Lessons to learn about French food, culture and way of life

• All of the above

The policy of (a)   means that immigrants are allowed to retain their unique identities while forming common grounds with the groups already living in the host country.

The _______ promotes integration as everyone learns English and have a common language of communication. This creates a sense of common identity. On the other hand, our cultural identity and heritage is not lost as we learn the Mother Tongue Languages.

• Ethnic Integration Policy

• Integration Policy

• Bilingual Policy

• GRC system

How does National Service help Singapore immigrants integrate into society?

• By functioning as a common experience for people from diverse backgrounds in society

• By letting people from diverse backgrounds develop a sense of national identity from protecting the territory and loved ones

• By letting people develop a collective interest from training and living together

• All of the above

Answer explanation

Take note that only PRs and Singapore citizens serve NS.

There are other initiatives in the form of community support. This includes community events organised by People's Association like block parties and festive celebrations so that new citizens can get to know their neighbourhood better.