Rights of linguistic minorities 2013, para. 79

Paragraph
Paragraph text
In many cases a strong community desire exists to maintain minority languages as a core and indispensable element of culture and identity. Sometimes this is viewed by Governments as divisive and counter to State ideologies and policies to promote national identity, national unity, integration and territorial integrity. In States in which historical, political and geographical factors have created highly diverse communities, disputes over territories and borders and tensions between different national, ethnic, religious and linguistic groups may exist. Irrespective of such factors States are obligated to respect, protect and fulfil the rights of linguistic minorities, and restrictions must be in the public interest and proportional to the aims sought.
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
  • Social & Cultural Rights
Person(s) affected
  • Ethnic minorities
Year
2013
Paragraph type
Conclusion / Recommendation
Paragraph info
Conclusion / Recommendation
Paragraph number
79