To multicultural armies: the case of Spain, UK and Holland

Abstract

The objective of this article is to analyze the factors that have bolstered the multiculturality promotion policies in the professional armies of three European countries: the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Spain. We will distinguish between those policies aimed to the integration of ethnocultural minorities in the public institutions, implemented by the United Kingdom and the Netherlands; and those measures meant to boost and contribute to the integration of immigrants in reception societies, which are followed by Spain. We will see what benefits for the military institution derive from this kind of policies, and what are the challenges that these states must face as they attempt to “reflect” in their armies the growing multiculturality of their societies.