Models of Autonomy? Case Studies of Minority Regimes in Hungary and French Polynesia

Linguistic-cultural or religious autonomy and other forms of federal organization are particularly appropriate to promote the harmonious coexistence of peoples. When and in what ways is autonomy appropriate, though? These are the questions that Thomas Burri seeks to answer.

His original idea of a model of autonomy wraps up the particular with the general, while avoiding any kind of paternalism.

We learn from French Polynesia, a place about as remote from Europe as it gets – but nonetheless closer than expected – and from the German minority in Hungary, which has been drowsing in the oversize shadow of the Hungarian community abroad.

The book is a highly recommended read for all those involved in nation building or minority protection – or for those simply curious about what is going on beyond their own province. (Daniel Thürer)

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Managing Diversity Protection of Minorities in International Law

The protection of minorities is widely recognized as a precondition not only for the effective implementation of the human rights of minority group members but also for the stability of states and peace between states. The files of international organizations attest to how unresolved minority problems can tip over into conflicts with hundreds of thousands of victims, including internally displaced persons and refugees.

"Management of Diversity - a fresh look at an old problem" contains a position paper and essays by experts on minority protection. The experts consider different perspectives and conceptual approaches and analyze several paradigmatic cases. They believe that the focus should be on empowering ethnic, religious and linguistic groups, based on the free development of their identities and the promotion of diversity in a pluralistic society. They argue that enhanced protection of minorities might contribute to a world with less violence and poverty.

This volume combines international law and constitutional law perspectives, providing information, diagnosis and ideas concerning minorities’ situations. It is intended not only for specialists but also for a wider circle of readers in the hope that they gain insights that will enable them to find new ways to cope with minority problems in Europe and beyond.

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