(By Siniša Tatalović)

The series of problems provoked by the transformations in Eastern Europe relate to unresolved issues of minority rights. In Southeastern Europe especially, in spite of the heavy suffering that characterised this area at the end of the millennium, not one ethnic problem has been entirely resolved. Moreover, at the threshold of the new millennium these unresolved issues are threatening peace, stability and development.
 In resolving Southeastern Europe's minority questions we are confronting one of the biggest challenges for the future, because the answers will bring stability, prosperity, and a home in Europe.
 
 

(By Vida Valencic - EuroLang)

A Council of Europe group of experts on national minorities has this week held a high-profile visit to Italy to examine how key legislation on the protection of autochthonous national minorities is being implemented. Representatives of the largest Roma and Sinti organisations presented the dire situation of the minority, which is forced to live in camps since permits for standard housing cannot be obtained.
 
 

(By Balázs Jarabik - EUROLANG)

In Slovakia, over twenty organisations have joined forces in order to improve the social situation of the country's Roma minority. Six Slovak and thirteen Roma groups have formed the Consortium for Equal Chances; each organisation within the Consortium will work with the Roma according to its field of expertise. The Roma are the second largest minority in Slovakia after the Hungarians.
 
 

(By Ivica Juric)

The Head of Administration for the Italian national community and other Istrian ethnic groups Silvano Zilli speaks about regulatory laws governing questions of the status and collective rights of national minorities in Croatia. He warns that while minority issues began to be addressed in this year's elections, the state administration is still not implementing the legal changes it adopted. One of the reasons the Italian national minority in Istria is solving its problems and satisfying its needs so well is, he says, the fact that it is protected by international pacts. He also claims that Croatia needs to recognise the vested worth of the Istrian region, and, using a little political sensitivity, guard and refine it as part of state property.