October 2005

National minorities and rural development in Europe: a view from FAO

The political, demographic and ethnic composition of contemporary Europe is the result of long, complex and often also conflicting historical, social and economic developments. The protection of persons belonging to national minorities has become an inherent part of policies on human rights and social inclusion in most European countries. In recent years, particular attention has been paid to national minorities within the context of the European Union enlargement to countries of Central and Eastern Europe. However, it should not be forgotten that members of national minorities live in all European countries, including Western, Northern and Southern Europe.

The matter of Europe’s national minorities has been largely neglected in debates about rural development and food security. This paper highlights key issues to be considered when addressing the role of national minorities in the development process in general, and dealing with issues such as rural poverty in particular. It is argued that agricultural and rural development interventions represent a potentially effective tool for improving the well-being and participation of national minorities residing in rural areas and/or engaged in agriculture.

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(in English only)