Religion, Nationalism and Immigration

The relationship between religion, immigration and nationalism is multi-faceted. In this chapter, we identify and explore two main trends in which these three phenomena come together. On the one hand, religion may be related to exclusionary forms of nationalism that are restrictive of diversity and immigrants or post-immigration religious minorities. This is the case with some populist far-right movements in Western Europe and the United States, for instance. In some other contexts, similar contemporary dynamics might target historic minorities and the challenge to postcolonial constitutional compromises, but with effects for newer migration flows also, as is the case in India. On the other hand, however, religion might be a powerful inclusionary force for immigrants and post-immigrant minorities, pushing back against exclusionary movements and helping to weave them into the national fabric. We explore both of these trends with reference to country cases in different world regions. Finally, we outline a multicultural conception of nationalism that can be inclusive of religious diversity and foster a sense of belonging.