This article explores the concept of multiculturalism in “western”and “eastern/ southern” societies with particular regard to the condition and problems of women. It points out the frequent contradiction between the policy of protecting the customs and ways of life of minority communities, granting them equality under the law and the principle of upholding the individual rights of their members, especially those of the feminine gender. The article contrasts the various interpretations of multiculturalism in several countries of the Americas, Europe and Asia and highlights the risks of accepting all the traditional practices and mores of immigrant groups especially when they are incompatible with the values of modern democratic societies.
