Vähemused

Vähemused are groups within a larger population that have a smaller numerical presence and a distinct cultural, linguistic, ethnic, or religious identity. They may maintain unique customs, languages, or traditions that differ from the majority. The concept is used in law, policy, and sociology to address the needs and rights of groups that are not part of the dominant culture.

International law protects minority rights through instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities, and regional agreements like the Council of Europe’s Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities. National constitutions may also recognize and safeguard minority rights, including non-discrimination, freedom of expression and religion, the right to education in one’s mother tongue, and participation in cultural life and public affairs.

Minorities can be ethnic, linguistic, religious, or cultural. Ethnic minorities are defined by ancestry or ethnicity; linguistic minorities speak a language other than the official one; religious minorities practice faiths minority within the country. Some groups are recognized as indigenous peoples with particular rights, though definitions vary by legal framework.

Challenges facing minorities often include discrimination, economic disparities, limited political representation, and barriers to access to education or services in their language. Policy responses emphasize anti-discrimination protections, language rights, inclusive education, avenues for political participation, and intercultural dialogue to promote social cohesion and equal opportunity.

See also minority rights, interculturalism, protected characteristics.