by ILO-CEET, 1997
The economic and social position of ethnic minorities in Central and Eastern Europe has undergone significant change since the transition to market economies started. It should be emphasized that in general the political changes have improved the legal and political position of ethnic minorities and their access to governmental support. The changes have opened for thenl new possibilities for education and culture in their own languages. On the other hand, the labour market situation of ethnic nlinorities llas deteriorated even further as compared with the majority population in a number of Central and Eastern European countries. In most instances the problems of unemployment, underemployment and remuneration for ethnic minorities are associated with the specific economic situation of regions where these minorities live. However, discrimination in employment against some minorities does exist, sometimes in a hidden form not only by employers, but also by labour market institutions and workers in enterprises.
It is clear that economic discrimination against ethnic minorities and their exclusion from the labour market or a disadvantaged position in it, can exacerbate political tensions in societies emerging from autocratic rule. This manual providing guidelines anc1 recommendations for the promotion of employment of ethnic minorities situations free from discrimination in Central and Eastern Europe is intended to help reduce these tensions by reducing their causes and to contribute to greater social cohesion in the countries of the region.
In the first part of this publication, the labour market situation of ethnic minorities in Central and Eastern Europe prior to 1989, as well as the changes which have occurred since 1989, are reviewed. In the same section an overview is given of the relevant ILO standards, Other instruments of the United Nations system, as well as the relevant standards adopted by the Council of Europe. These standards form the basis of the guidelines and recommendations for the promotion of employment of ethnic minorities in Central and Eastern Europe, which are developed in the second part of this publication. These standards have assumed an even more prominent role with the ILO's current campaign for the ratification of the seven ILO's fundamental human rights Conventions, including those on discrimination which are at the heart of this manual. The ILO's member States in Central and Eastern Europe have responded to this Campaign, and these standards are thus becoming even more fully integrated into their national laws and practice.
These guidelines and recommendations focus On the access till employment, the terms and conditions of employment, access to vocational training and guidance and the role Of the national authorities and the social partners in promoting non-discrimination in employment Of ethnic minorities. It is our hope that these guidelines and recommendations will assist till ILO tripartite Constituents in the region in their efforts to ensure equal chances on the labour market for everyone.
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