Paper 2 Theme 1b - National Unity

The episode examines the multifaceted challenge of achieving national unity in independent Southeast Asian states, a prominent issue stemming from their colonial past and the resulting diverse ethnic and cultural landscapes. It outlines the big questions surrounding this pursuit, including the challenges faced and the approaches adopted by governments. The document then explores various strategies employed for nation-building, such as the use of education, language, religion, and national symbols, alongside dominant culture, multiculturalism, and ideologies. Furthermore, it discusses policies towards minorities, highlighting the impact of political representation and contrasting assimilative measures with inclusive multicultural approaches on national cohesion. Ultimately, the text evaluates the effectiveness of these policies in fostering a shared national identity and mitigating ethnic tensions across the region.

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