Minority Protection and Kin-State Engagement: Karta Polaka in Comparative Perspective

Abstract

ABSTRACT In this article, the authors propose a new normative approach that recognises and responds more adequately to the quadratic political reality of kin-state—kin minorities relations. The authors’ point of departure is the dual contention that home-states have the primary duty to achieve full and effective equality between their citizens, while accommodating fairly their internal cultural and linguistic diversity; and that kin-states have a legitimate interest in their co-ethnics abroad. Building on this foundation, the authors argue that kin-state engagement should complement home-states’ domestic commitments to cultural justice, in order to foster more effective minority protection. The authors conclude by outlining a concept of shared responsibility for minority protection between kin-state and home-states.