Suchergebnisse

Ethno-cultural and State boundaries seldom overlap. Almost all States have minorities of some kind, with many belonging to communities which transcend State frontiers. (...) Persons belonging to national minorities should be able to establish and maintain free and peaceful contacts across State borders and to develop cultural and economic links. When transfrontier cultural ties, however, take on political significance and States unilaterally take steps to defend, protect or support what they describe as "their kin" outside their sovereign jurisdiction, there is a risk of political tension or even violence. (...) In the past, the HCNM has confronted such tensions in many regions of the OSCE area and remains acutely aware of potential dangers associated with excessive politicization of minority issues in inter-State relations. In the view of the HCNM, there is a need for greater clarity on how States can pursue their interests with regard to national minorities abroad without jeopardizing peace and good neighbourly relations. It is for this reason that these Recommendations have been elaborated, guided by principles of international law and based on the extensive experience of the HCNM. (...) (OSCE / Pll)