Marginalized, Minorities, and Vulnerable Groups

Vocabulary terms and definitions focusing on the concepts of marginalization, vulnerability, and the social exclusion of specific groups.

Marginalization

The process through which individuals or groups are pushed to the edge of society, limiting their access to resources, opportunities, and rights that are typically available to members of a more dominant group.

Social Exclusion

Excluding groups from taking part in community or social activities and social interactions.

Cultural Discrimination

Involves the devaluation or rejection of the customs, languages, traditions, and identities of certain groups, leading to a loss of cultural heritage and feelings of inferiority.

Vulnerability

A state of being exposed to physical or emotional injuries; vulnerable persons or groups need special attention, protection, and support.

Minority Groups

A small group of people within a community, region, or country that is different from the majority population in terms of race, religion, ethnicity, and language.

Marginalized occupational groups

Specific categories of workers who face systemic disadvantages or discrimination within the labor market, such as tanners, potters, weavers, and ironsmiths.

Spatial Marginalization

Manifested by craft-workers settling or living on the outskirts of villages, being segregated at market places, and being expected to give way for others.

Social marginalization (Craft-workers)

The exclusion of craft-workers from intermarriage, sharing burial places, and membership in associations such as iddirs.

Age-based vulnerability

The susceptibility of children and older people (aged 60 and above) to different forms of attack, physical injuries, and emotional harms.

Social Norm

Expectations of society regarding how members should behave; in the context of early marriage, a girl not married earlier may be seen as disrespectful or unwanted.