ABSTRACT
This chapter will explore how concepts of democracy and modern neo-liberal policy have acted to support, and act as a barrier to, the successful inclusion of students in mainstream settings, in England, Finland, and internationally. Basic elements of democratic practice will be explored to explain the development of practices to support the education of all children – including those with special educational needs (SEN) – which have generally moved to take greater consideration of the diversity of needs of all students, and to allow for greater opportunities for them to participate, and succeed in mainstream educational settings. This will be followed by a more in-depth focus of how modern educational policy considerations impact on inclusive practice. Considerations outside of political elements will also be summarized, to give a broader view of current issues facing countries, schools, and staff, in meeting an inclusive agenda.
