The past few decades have witnessed an upsurge in demands by ethnocultural groups for greater rights and recognition. This is one component of a wider trend – sometimes referred to as the ‘politics of difference,’ ‘identity politics,’ or ‘multiculturalism’ – that emphasizes the need for sensitivity to pluralism and diversity. However, these general terms can obscure important differences between various kinds of ethnocultural groups. Immigrant groups, indigenous peoples, racial groups, and national minorities differ in their needs and aspirations and so typically demand different kinds of minority rights (e.g., accommodation rights, legal exemptions, affirmative action, representation rights, and self-government rights). Each raises distinctive ethical issues and must be examined on its own terms. Whereas some demands appeal to widely held values of justice and tolerance, others may threaten individual liberty, democracy, or solidarity.