Minority rights?

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Minority rights refer to the rights of an individual or group that are a small number compared to the rest of the population. In the context of international law, minority rights mainly concern national, ethnic, religious or linguistic minorities, but there are other minority groups. Minority rights change regularly in conjunction with minority status, which is determined by location. For example, a Jewish man in the United States is considered a religious minority, while the same man in Israel would be in the majority.

With growing global awareness and attention to human rights, the United Nations (UN) has made a statement on minority rights. The declaration is not law, but many countries, especially democracies, are obliged to adhere to its content because they have signed treaties. While there are still many countries that grossly violate human rights, especially in the case of minorities, the UN statement offers a well-rounded explanation of minority rights.

Adopted in 1992, the Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities promotes human rights and individual freedom globally without distinction as to race, sex, language or religion. Specific minority rights mentioned in the declaration include the right for a minority group to enjoy their culture, practice their choice of religion and use their language without fear of discrimination.

The UN declaration also includes that people belonging to minority groups have the right to participate in all aspects of life, including cultural, religious, social and economic activities. Furthermore, minority groups have the right to establish and organize their own associations. They can choose whether or not to exercise their rights without discrimination.

Nations adhering to the United Nations Declaration are obliged to put in place special measures to guarantee the rights of minorities. When nations create new laws, programs and policies, they must do so in the best interests of minorities. Nations must also create favorable conditions for minorities to practice their culture, religion, customs and language when they do not violate national law. The creation of these conditions is often achieved through education.

For example, nations must include opportunities for minorities to learn their native language and be educated in their native language. Furthermore, countries are urged to promote knowledge of minority culture, history, tradition and language within their country to encourage peaceful relations between minority groups and the majority. States are also encouraged to promote minority activity as part of economic and political developments within their countries.

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