Scandinavian identity and features of its construction in the context of the crisis of multiculturalism

The Scandinavian identity is based on the similarity of the political systems of the Nordic countries and their common history, a universalistic model of social security, a desire to maintain gender equality and involve as many citizens as possible in labor force activities. Quite significant changes, undermining the foundations of the Scandinavian identity, began to occur at the end of the last century. The most serious challenge was the crisis of multiculturalism, determined by the expanding influx of migrants and the growing difficulties associated with their integration into the life of the host society. Multiculturalism is subject to forced modification. The emphasis is shifting from the idea of integration as a two-way process, within which ethnic Scandinavians and newcomers would gradually move towards each other, learning about each other’s culture and values, to the idea of assimilation, which implies the obligation of migrants to more effectively adapt to their new country and be included in its political and social life.