Advantages of Multicultural Society and Labor Force, Essay Example

Multiculturalism is defined as the system, recognizing and respecting all the beliefs and behaviors.  In this system, the presence of all diverse groups is respected. All the differences between the sociocultural values are acknowledged. All groups are equally welcomed by encouraging and enabling the continuous contribution to the organization or society.

The dissolution of the Communist bloc and the accession of new member states to the EU have opened up geographical and economical borders for people and companies from different regions struggling to make profits in their mature markets and wishing to establish a presence in fast-growing Eastern European and Asian regions. As East European countries now have to open their boundaries to goods, services and capital from the West – in line with EU trade directives – it makes it easier for companies to set up subsidiaries or franchises there. Similarly, when China acceded to the WTO in 2001, it committed to removing all protectionist trade barriers and encourages the free flow of foreign goods. All these changes can be accepted only if the cultures and values from the source countries are accepted in the destination countries. Multiculturalism makes it possible for a society and organization to enjoy the benefits of globalization.

The companies today should not act like orchestra, who play music according to set notes. They should be like jazz players, who experiment and take risks. In the global business era, where innovation and creativity is the main source of capital, it is essential for organizations to adopt a volatile and change adopting approach. A diverse workforce with different perspectives, skills and experiences, enables a company to acquire innovative and modernized approach leading to the competitive edge. Welcoming people from diverse cultural backgrounds is also a smart way of attracting business. The companies in the countries having diverse population must undertake effective measures to build more inclusive and diverse workforces (Oliver, 2005).

Multiculturalism can also create positive effects on the society. It can create a society which is less racist as compare to monoculture society. This can be possible that by living together for a long time. If different ethnic groups can develop more understanding regarding each other (Samuda, 1984). This result in less racism and prejudice towards one another. Another positive aspect of multiculturalism is the provision of diversity and rich culture with vast ideas, beliefs, opinions, and customs of life. Multiculturalism has lead to the formation of some successful societies and economies of the world. Canada is one such example, which provides liberty to all the people of different ethnic and religious groups to practice their beliefs and norms. The Canadian multiculturalism policy has encouraged many to come to Canada. These immigrants form a large proportion of the country’s population and are playing an important part in the successful economy of the country. Not only now, but multiculturalism will be beneficial in the future, as the baby boomers will not be part of the work force in the next decade and the next generation will be smaller to take its place. In Canada and other European countries, the population will not be large enough to contribute to the labor force. Presently, the Asian and South American countries are the main source of labor for most of the European economies including America and Canada. With the passing time, the competition for talented and specialized labor will be fierce and will be the determinant of success or failure in the world economy.

References:

Oliver, D H, (2005). Achieving results through diversity: A strategy for success, Ivey Business Journal Online, Ivey Management Services, March/April 2005

Rosado, C (1996).  Toward a Definition of Multiculturalism, Rosado Consulting for Change in Human Systems, October 28, 1996 http://www.rosado.net/pdf/Def_of_Multiculturalism.pdf Retrieved as on October 8^th, 2010

Samuda, Ronald J. (1984). Multiculturalism in Canada: Social and Educational Perspectives. New Jersey: Prentice Hall.