Minorities and effective political participation: a survey of law and national practices 2010, para. 47
Paragraph- Paragraph text
- Arguments for special measures which could ensure the participation of minorities in public bodies are based on the fact that because of their smaller number, minorities can hardly ever determine the outcome of decisions in a majoritarian democracy. In practice, minorities tend to be outvoted, unable to secure representation proportionate with their numbers, thus denying them an effective voice in the public and political life of States. The rationale for special measures is not, as is frequently perceived, to create a privileged position for minorities, but rather to level the playing field, placing minorities in the same position as majorities. Being involved in national political and social processes, contributing to policymaking and participating in (and benefiting from) public services should help to counter marginalization and alienation. States that welcome the participation and integration of minorities tend not only to be more stable, but also more prosperous.
- Legal status
- Non-negotiated soft law
- Body
- Special Rapporteur on minority issues
- Document type
- Special Procedures' report
- Means of adoption
- N.A.
- Topic(s)
- Equality & Inclusion
- Social & Cultural Rights
- Person(s) affected
- Ethnic minorities
- Year
- 2010
- Paragraph type
- Other
- Paragraph number
- 47
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