The article contains the results of the study of the current state of multicultural education in Russia. The history of studying the problem of multicultural education has been analyzed; an overview of scientific concepts and research of Russian scientists in the sphere of international relations, including those conducted under defended theses, and the description of technologies of multicultural education in Russia (review of experience, programs, curricula and their effectiveness) have been provided. The ways of the development of multicultural education in Russia have been described. Formulation of the problem of the development of multicultural education in the Russian Federation is currently associated with a progressive trend of the interethnic and social differentiation, intolerance and intransigence, which are manifested both in individual behavior (adherence to prejudices, avoiding contacts with the "others", proneness to conflict) and in group actions (interpersonal aggression, discrimination on any grounds, ethnic conflicts, etc.). A negative attitude towards people with certain diseases, disabilities, HIV-infected people, etc., is another problem at the moment. This situation also manifests in the education system and requires taking immediate measures to optimize interpersonal relationships and considering peculiarities of different people within the framework of multicultural education and the creation of the inclusive educational environment. The materials presented in the article may be useful for graduate students studying the issues of multicultural education, optimization of interethnic relations, prevention of extremism and xenophobia, formation of a positive attitude towards people (including those with developmental disabilities, health problems, the HIV-positive status, etc.), as well as professionals engaged in organizing prevention activities.