Marginalise

Marginalise is a verb meaning to treat a person or group as insignificant or peripheral within a society or system. It involves placing someone on the margins of social, political, or economic life, limiting access to resources, representation, or voice. Marginalisation can be intentional or the result of structural inequalities embedded in institutions and practices.

The term derives from marginal, 'edge' or 'border,' and the suffix -ise. In British English, marginalise is standard; in American usage the spelling marginalize is common. The related noun marginalisation (or marginalization) denotes the process or state of being marginalised, and the adjective marginalised describes someone affected by it.

Marginalisation affects various groups and domains. It often targets ethnic, racial, religious, or linguistic minorities; people with disabilities; migrants; the poor or unemployed; rural residents; and members of minority genders or sexual orientations. It can show up in underrepresentation, unequal access to education, health care, housing, or justice, and in exclusion from decision-making.

Mechanisms include legal and policy barriers, discriminatory practices, economic restructuring, and cultural norms that stigmatize certain identities. Language and media can reinforce marginalisation through stereotypes. Data gaps and surveillance can also obscure the needs of marginalised groups, making it harder to address disparities.

Responses emphasize inclusion, equity, and empowerment: anti-discrimination laws, targeted services, inclusive design, participatory governance, and efforts to diversify leadership and representation. Evaluation uses indicators such as access to services, income, health outcomes, education, political participation, and social attitudes to monitor progress toward reducing marginalisation.