convivencia

Convivencia is a term used to describe the condition of peaceful coexistence among diverse religious, ethnic, and cultural communities living in a common society. It also refers to the practice of civic life that accommodates plural identities within shared institutions, public spaces, and social norms. The term derives from Latin convivere, meaning "to live together."

Historically, the word is associated with medieval Iberia (Al-Andalus), where Muslims, Christians, and Jews coexisted and interacted in intellectual and cultural exchange. The historical accuracy is debated: some scholars interpret convivencia as a period of tolerance and cooperation despite political conflicts; others argue that it is an oversimplified ideal and that periods of brutality and coercion occurred, with power asymmetries shaping relations.

In modern discourse, the term is used descriptively and aspirationally to discuss models of intercultural dialogue, inclusive citizenship, and interfaith understanding. It appears in academic sociology and anthropology to analyze how diverse groups share public space, resources, and decision-making; in policy and education to promote tolerance and social cohesion.

Critics warn against romanticizing the past, noting that coexistence often depended on coercion, adaptation, or segregation, and that convivencia may obscure social hierarchies, economic inequalities, and religious intolerance that persisted.

Today, convivencia is invoked in discussions of plural societies in Spain, Latin America, and elsewhere as a framework for building inclusive communities, intercultural curricula, and conflict-resolution strategies.