There are differing definitions of what constitutes a national minority, whether based on ethnicity, language, culture, religion or other shared characteristics. National minorities live within a state but have connections to another state, like Serbians living in Croatia. It is important for states to officially accept national minority communities and protect their culture, language and values through intercultural education programs, budget allocations for human rights, and non-discrimination policies to prevent conflicts and encourage integration while valuing diversity. Recommendations include guaranteed minority representation in local governments, dual voting, and cultural programs to share minority heritage with the broader society.

1. Central and South-Eastern Europe Experiences