The socio-economic implications on minority groups in the applicant states of the European Union

Abstract

Although much has been said about the evolution of the international state system and globalization, still, in various parts of Europe, minority issues are a cause for concern. States have been the main actors in this scenario, oppressing different minorities under their jurisdiction. The need to express concern and analyse how and why minority groups have been formed in particular areas of Europe within a larger political and regional framework prompted me to undertake this project. This work consists of an attempt towards defining minorities, givmg an insight into minority groups in the applicant states, their formation and current status. The notion of self-determination in relation to minorities is also debatable in this context. Finally, the question of minorities is seen through the European Union perspective and further enlargement process.