In Chapter 6 I defended the merits of a variable geometry design for citizenship. Underlying such a design is the belief that exclusion, subordination and discrimination are impossible to reconcile with the principle of equal citizenship and that flexible arrangements are needed in order to tackle inequality, multifaceted exclusion and cumulative disadvantages. In this chapter, I will attempt to link the normative template and the theoretical issues pursued in previous chapters with matters of public policy and public service delivery. Guided by what has been argued thus far in the context of both the design of denationalised citizenship and the variable geometry paradigm, and reflecting on existing policies and institutional cultures, the discussion in this chapter will centre on institutional frameworks for minority incorporation and on proposals for policy reform.

Public policy undoubtedly impacts on the character of the citizenry in a profound way and shapes (in my opinion, more than it reflects) conceptions of majority and minority group identity and membership. Promoting an inclusive conception of membership requires an array of procedural and substantive measures in a number of domains, such as economic life (labour market policies, parity in employment earnings and income), political life (equal representation, participation in decision-making processes in formal and informal politics), law (anti-discrimination legislation, soft law instruments and their implementation), social citizenship (healthcare, social security, social protection, and housing), education, culture and the media.

The discussion in this chapter is structured as follows. In the first section I examine several modes for the incorporation of minority groups.