Principles of social inclusion

Dr Matiur Rahman :
The World Summit for Social Development held in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1995 defined social integration as the goal of creating an inclusive society in which each individual, with rights and responsibilities, has an active role.
But some societies are more socially inclusive than others. So, what are the various elements to practically create and maintain an inclusive society? An inclusive society is based on fundamental human rights values, i.e., “All human beings participate freely and equally in dignity and rights. They are possessed of reason and conscience and are accountable to one another in a spirit of brotherhood”.
It is a society where all members, regardless of their background, can participate in civic, social, economic and political activities. For this to happen, legal, regulatory and policy frameworks must be inclusive and promote equitable and inclusive processes in all areas of implementation, such as basic education, public freedom, and access to facilities and information. Their equal access is ensured, and diversity and cultural pluralism are respected and integrated.
The people who violate human rights must be brought to justice. Departments working to protect just societies must adopt the principle of impartiality in giving weight to the views of social inclusion defenders at local, regional and national levels. Protecting all persons and maintaining their living environment is essential in creating an environment of inclusion, feeling and participation in society.
For an inclusive society, all members at the local and national levels must be encouraged to participate in civic, social, economic and political activities. It must enable them to participate actively and keep an active role in all societal events. They need to be aware of the opportunities they have to walk in the areas to participate in decision-making that affects their lives. Still, it is possible to create an inclusive society that will be regarded as the best guardian principle of social inclusion. The members of society must ensure the right to interact and communicate with each other and maintain the principle of mutual trust.
As long as both the advantaged and the disadvantaged have equal access to or benefit from these government facilities and services, they will all feel less burdened by differences in socio-economic status, thus reducing potential feelings of exclusion or frustration. However, it is essential to note that participation alone does not necessarily ensure access to public benefits, as unequal relationships within communities and households may prevent access to benefits by vulnerable groups.
Similarly, equal participation in public information plays a vital role in building an inclusive society, as it will enable the widespread involvement of informed members. Information about society should be made available, such as what a community owns, produces or benefits from. Mass media can be used as an effective tool to educate and enlighten the members of society.
Equity in the distribution of wealth and resources is another essential component of an inclusive society. A clear understanding of how resources are allocated and used strengthens the foundation of an inclusive society. So, socio-economic policies should be geared towards managing equitable distribution and equal opportunities.
This principle should be effectively implemented in all areas, including public health, and inclusive policies, directives and programs should be effectively implemented with sensitivity. Whether inclusion was achieved and areas for improvement, it is also necessary for a robust monitoring and evaluation tool to demonstrate this.
Tolerance and appreciation of cultural diversity add another dimension to building an inclusive society. This includes a society that celebrates multiple and diverse expressions of identity. By celebrating diversity, there is an acknowledgement and affirmation of differences within and between members of society, which can move society away from equalisation, categorisation and alignment towards more inclusive principles. Also, prioritising different opinions and ensuring participation promotes society’s development and balance.
Education plays an important role in this regard, as it will provide opportunities to learn the history and culture of one’s own and other societies, which will develop an understanding and appreciation of different societies, cultures and religions. Especially for young people, education is an opportunity to develop values of respect and appreciation of diversity that influence the values, choices and judgments of individuals, especially those in decision-making positions.
Leave no one behind is the motto for building an inclusive and sustainable society. Only the powerful, wealthy and able enjoy all kinds of facilities like social, political and economic opportunities, which is not called inclusive society. An inclusive society is one in which everyone wants equal and equitable access to all kinds of opportunities, whether poor or women or persons with disabilities or children. Every development project should focus on ensuring the equal participation of everyone in society. In the case of Bangladesh, it is time to move towards building an inclusive society to ensure sustainable development.

(The writer is a researcher and development worker).