Double Standards Pertaining to Minority Protection

Book excerpt: While allegations of double standards are mostly voiced in relation to the EU, this book takes a multidimensional approach to the use of differential standards concerning minorities and minority protection. Not only do academics from different disciplines contribute to the volume but the multidimensionality also resides in the fact that several international organisations active in the field of minority protection are included in the analysis. Furthermore differential standards are also discussed in relation to the (ongoing debate about the status and rights of) ‘new’ minorities. Finally, the challenge of protecting minorities and other vulnerable groups within minorities is addressed. In the process the book revisits the fundamental tenets of minority protection as well as the basic rational of the international organisations concerned.