Rights of linguistic minorities 2013, para. 57

Paragraph
Paragraph text
The ability of minorities to engage institutions and administrative bodies in minority languages ensures that they are able to express their views, participate in consultative processes and influence national policy that affects them and the regions where they live. Where linguistic minorities face language barriers to their interaction with authorities their right to participate fully in public life, as required by the 1992 Declaration on Minorities, may be limited. Some States have population percentage thresholds above which minorities may use minority languages in official interactions with government officials and bodies and qualify for other entitlements relating to languages. These should, however, be set at levels that are not restrictive, and flexibility in approaches is preferable. Where significant minority populations are concentrated it is particularly appropriate to ensure that they have opportunities to use their languages in communication with administrative bodies and authorities, but consideration should also be given to the needs of smaller or dispersed language groups that may face unique challenges.
Legal status
Non-negotiated soft law
Body
Special Rapporteur on minority issues
Document type
Special Procedures' report
Means of adoption
N.A.
Topic(s)
  • Civil & Political Rights
  • Equality & Inclusion
  • Governance & Rule of Law
  • Movement
  • Social & Cultural Rights
Person(s) affected
  • Ethnic minorities
Year
2013
Paragraph type
Other
Paragraph number
57