National identity politics and cultural recognition: the party system as context of choice

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis paper looks into the determinants of cultural recognition in ethnically diverse democracies that are divided on national identity, arguing that political parties’ cultural ideologies are not entirely predetermined by their national identity position. It posits that, rather than just a tool for national identity building, cultural recognition in such societies is also a way for parties to show commitment to their ethnic electorate. In this sense, the ethnic segmentation of the party system provides political elites with a context of choice from which to formulate their stance on cultural recognition. The paper argues that, far from being divisive, national identity politics can have a strong influence in establishing consensus on national culture. Moreover, it suggests that looking at national identity and recognition politics from the perspective of electoral incentives can help us understand why culture regimes can appear to be unfair to some groups, yet remain legitimate politically.