Non-discrimination and equality in the right of political participation for minorities

In: Journal on ethnopolitics and minority issues in Europe, Band 3, Heft 3: Developments in Non-Discrimination Legislation, S. 1-20

Abstract

Non-discrimination in the right of political participation is essential for the protection of the interests of all minority groups - both minorities by force and minorities by will. This article considers some of the measures necessary to ensure effective participation by minorities in the deliberative and decision-making processes of the democratic state. For minorities by will, what the author calls ethno-cultural minorities, the right of political participation, within a deliberative understanding of democratic government, also implies the need to introduce special measures, including where necessary the introduction of autonomy regimes, to protect and promote the minority culture. The author then goes on to examine this proposition in the second half of the article, paying particular attention to the provisions set out in the 'Lund Recommendations' on Effective Participation of National Minorities in Public Life. (ECMI)