Religious pluralism: Essential or challenge to liberal democracy?

While religious pluralism is often regarded as a defining aspect of western liberal democracies, the mix of different religious and cultural identities has raised specific challenges for liberal democracies in Europe. Many religious communities, especially Muslim groups, face criticisms of seeking religious exceptionalism within legal structures which are largely secular. This article reflects on the tension between the state’s commitment to upholding cultural diversity as a democratic good and the limits of social and legal pluralism.