Due to increased globalization, migration and requests for the recognition of cultural diversity, museums are now encountering new demands and their societal roles are changing.

Historically, an important role of museums has been to contribute to national homogenization. The book specifically deals with how the Swedish museum sector of culture and history addresses new demands from a society that is profoundly characterized by migration and cultural diversity. Besides the museums’ representations of migration and cultural diversity, the book also examines how changes in the museum sector relate to general policy developments in the fields of culture, integration and minorities. The book also discusses whether and how museums are open for dialogue and collaboration with migrants and ethnic minorities and the kinds of problems museums encounter in their efforts to be more inclusive.

Introduction

Overview of the Research Field

Theoretical Points of Views

Limitations, Sources, and Methods

Swedish Migration History and Migration Politics

Swedish Museums’ Work with Migration and Cultural Diversity over Time

Museums’ Current Approaches to Migration and Cultural Diversity

The Museum of Work – A Modern Museum Promoting Equality

Malmö Museums – Is This Traditional Museum in Tune with the Times?

Conclusions