Abstract
This paper addresses the question of whether the development of a common identity is an attainable goal in educational institutions within societies that are currently characterized by superdiversity and a rapid change of individual identity. The example of linguistic diversity and identity is used to this end. It emerges that the multifaceted and dynamic aspects of individual identities constitute a valuable resource in the construction of a common (inter)national identity. The contribution identifies implications for teachers and educators and shows ways of dealing with the challenge of the development of a common identity by using the appreciation of individual identity as a starting point.