diversity in the territories

Territorial diversity and its reverse, segregation which is primarily spatial, is a major source of inequality. Among the factors of discrimination, France is the only European country to have integrated the territorial aspect (place of residence since 2014). Several terms refer to the most negative aspects of this unequal distribution over the territory: ghettos, relegation, segregation ...The center opposes the periphery - inequality at the global level is seen at the local level. At a global level, there is the same unequal distribution of wealth between the territories, with unequal exchanges which have developed. This inequality is not new, but the geopolitics of the 21st century is characterized by highly fluctuating power struggles, yesterday's allies easily become tomorrow's enemies, with evolving allegiances according to the economic situation. The most vulnerable populations of the South are undergoing these geopolitical changes, and are forced to leave their politically, economically and socially unstable countries. Thinking of finding more favorable conditions in the countries of the North, they are assigned to territories where they are faced to social, economic or cultural exclusion with the creation of "ghettos". In these territories, “indigenous” populations, also poor, and socially and economically excluded, live alongside minorities of foreign origin.It is difficult to participate in the life of the city when the essential, vital needs are the first priority. The notion of active citizenship is important in providing social mobility within these territories, which are organized in increasingly small spaces (neighborhoods). France proposes a cartography of the political districts of the city (QPV); since 2015, another diversity has been considered, that of rural areas. Urban areas have until now been in the majority. The poverty criterion is cross-cutting and applies to both rural and urban areas, with a feeling of isolation that can be even stronger in rural areas, for example in areas without Internet. In addition to the social and economic divide, there is the digital divide which can provoke violent reactions (such as the one observed against mayors).Two illustrations of territorial diversity and the means of encouraging it are suggested by the city of Marseille, symbol of diversity and multiculturalism with two of its “institutions” - its football club, the Olympique de Marseille and the Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean (MUCEM). The European project Valuing the experience acquired by local elected representatives (VA2EL, 2008-2010) insisted on the central role played by local elected representatives in combating social exclusion and regional inequalities, by promoting their very specific experience acquired through a local mandate.