ABSTRACT
In its liberal form, citizenship claims to embody the ideal of universalism. All individuals who can legitimately claim to be citizens are supposed to share equally the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Nevertheless, the emphasis on a general will that transcends particular differences of individuals presupposes and enforces a homogeneity of citizens. In demanding that individuals suppress their own needs, interests and perceptions they derive from their particular experiences, the universalistic notion of citizenship asserted by liberals has led to the denial of difference and oppression of minorities. Recent works on citizenship and civil society suggest that a democratic polity that genuinely protects the equal rights of all its citizens to pursue their particular ways of life must give voice to the disadvantaged groups. The recognition and expression of difference are increasingly seen as important for redressing injustice and realizing democracy.
