Multiculturalism as a challenge for museum policy in multinational states

Abstract

The strengthening of globalization and migration processes underscores the important role of museums in preserving cultural heritage and in shaping inclusive cultural policies. The aim of the article is to examine the influence of ethnocultural diversity on the development of modern approaches to museum activities, analyze the mechanisms of representing cultural communities in the museum space, and determine effective strategies for preserving cultural heritage and fostering intercultural dialogue in a multinational society. The research methodology includes historical-genetic, comparative, systemic and culturological approaches that allow us to study the evolution of museum policy and to compare international models of organizing museum activities as spaces for representing cultural diversity and collective memory. The results of the study indicate that multiculturalism significantly affects the rethinking of museum policy, which is increasingly moving towards a model of inclusive representation of cultures, where different population groups are given the opportunity not only to be objects of exposition but also subjects of historical interpretation. At the same time, it is indicated that such an approach poses risks of narrative fragmentation and the politicization of museum space. It has been established that the implementation of a multicultural approach contributes to the intensification of intercultural dialogue, an increase in the level of public participation and the formation of new formats of interaction between the museum and the audience, in which digital technologies, interactive exhibitions and partnership projects with local communities are of particular importance. This allows for a more complete and accessible representation of cultural diversity; however, the effectiveness of such practices largely depends on the professional training of museum workers and on institutions' ability to maintain a balance between preserving historical authenticity and responding to modern social demands. Conclusions. It is substantiated that an effective museum policy in multicultural conditions should be based on the principles of dialogue among national communities, their equal representation and critical rethinking of historical narratives, thereby strengthening social cohesion in multinational states. Prospects for further research include studying the mechanisms by which museum institutions adapt to the conditions of globalization and migration, analyzing the impact of digitalization on the formation of multicultural exhibitions, and developing practical models of interaction between museums and various ethnic and social groups.