National Minorities in Inter-State Relations

Ethno-cultural and State boundaries seldom overlap. Almost all States have minorities of some kind, with many belonging to communities which transcend State frontiers. These communities often serve as a bridge between States, fostering a climate of dialogue and tolerance. However, when transfrontier cultural ties take on political significance and States unilaterally take steps to defend, protect or support what they describe as “their kin” outside their jurisdiction, there is a risk of political tension or even violence. To what extent and how can States pursue their interests with regard to national minorities abroad without jeopardizing peace and good neighbourly relations? This is the question addressed by the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities in his Bolzano/Bozen Recommendations on National Minorities in Inter-State Relations. The book analyses the Recommendations from the legal and political/security perspective and engages in more general discussion on how questions of national minorities affect inter-State relations.