The relations between the present-day countries of the Carpathian Basin are burdened by the legacy of the common historical past. The Versailles peace system, which wanted to rearrange the borders on an ethnic basis, did not solve the problems of multi-ethnic empires, but multiplied them now within the framework of nation-states. International law could not provide adequate answers to the protection of minority rights either, this question primarily depends on the relations between the individual countries, on the goodwill or ill will, or even indifference, of the current political power. During the period of regime changes in Central Europe, the settlement of the issue gained new impetus, and several international documents were created to protect minorities. In addition, the silenced or kept under wraps minority issue became part of the bilateral agreements of the countries of the region, not least taking into account the requirements of Euro-Atlantic integration. Between 1991 and 2003, Hungary - with the exception of Austria - concluded basic agreements and/or minority agreements with all of its neighbors, supported by an extremely favorable international response at the time. Today, this light has faded, especially in the relations between the countries concerned, and in the disputes concerning minorities, we hardly hear about these treaties. Are bilateral treaties really suitable for strengthening minority rights and improving the situation of minorities? How do the states relate to the implementation of these treaties, can their content be more than written fluff? What is the role of bilateral treaties in the international minority protection system? The studies in the volume follow up on these questions.

L'Harmattan For Rent
Social science
294 pages
Binding: cardboard
ISBN: 9789634147664
Author: Balázs Vizi
Release year: 2021