The Concept of Multicultural Education: Definition, Principles, Approaches, Objectives, Benefits, and Historical Development

Abstract

Indonesia is a highly plural country with diverse ethnicities, languages, religions, and cultures. This diversity can be a national strength, but it also has the potential to trigger conflicts if not properly managed. Multicultural education emerges as a paradigm that emphasizes tolerance, equality, justice, and respect for differences. This article aims to describe the definition, principles, approaches, objectives, benefits, and historical development of multicultural education, both globally and in Indonesia. The research method used is library research by examining books, scientific articles, and relevant regulations. The findings reveal that multicultural education plays a vital role in building a democratic, inclusive, and just society. Its historical development, both globally and in Indonesia, shows that this paradigm has always emerged from the need to address discrimination, maintain unity, and respond to global dynamics. The implementation of multicultural education in Indonesia must be strengthened through curriculum policy, teacher training, and community involvement to truly become a strategic instrument in nation-building.