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Multi‐Ethnic Integration for Social Inclusiveness: State Strategies for Sustainable Development and Well‐Being in the Global North and South

Author

Listed:
  • Hafiz Syed Mohsin Abbas
  • Xiaodong Xu
  • Lixin Zhang

Abstract

Social inclusiveness (SI) is central to the United Nations' vision for sustainable development (SD), which aims to integrate societies cohesively without discrimination. Multi‐ethnic integration (MEtI) is pivotal in achieving SI and addressing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study was comparatively designed using the RIMc integration framework, which integrates the theoretical connotations of Rawls' justice theory, institutional theory, and multiculturalism. Moreover, considering regional diversity and division, the Brandt Line of Division concept has been applied in 98 Global South and 56 Global North countries, spanning a total of 154 countries, from 2008 to 2022. Making it statistically rigorous, a two‐step system was applied, using Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) estimation, and robustness was checked through Driscoll‐Kraay Standard Errors‐Fixed Effect (DKSE‐FE). The statistics indicate that institutional frameworks and addressing resource inequality are critical for promoting SI and MEtI globally, fostering inclusivity over division. In the Global South, SI and MEtI face challenges due to weak law enforcement and unequal legal treatment, while the Global North excels in policy implementation. This study concludes that MEtI would be considered a key to successful social inclusion and sustainable development by effectively addressing institutional settings and addressing inequality in a manner that does not infringe on anyone's liberty. Moreover, cultural norms and values should be intact despite the assimilation of other cultures and values to retain their true essence. They must take this multiculturalism in promoting sustainable development threads instead of invading the Indigenous cultures, which would be essential for SI and the way forward for sustainable societies.

Suggested Citation

  • Hafiz Syed Mohsin Abbas & Xiaodong Xu & Lixin Zhang, 2026. "Multi‐Ethnic Integration for Social Inclusiveness: State Strategies for Sustainable Development and Well‐Being in the Global North and South," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 34(2), pages 1755-1772, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:sustdv:v:34:y:2026:i:2:p:1755-1772
    DOI: 10.1002/sd.70431
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