Abstract
The report offers an overview of kin-state engagement in Europe examining the extent to which it has contributed to the protection of the targeted ethnic groups. It identifies those issues which are relevant for examining kin-state – kin minorities relations in Southeast Europe. We aim to answer three main questions: 1) what is kin-state engagement and what makes a state a ‘kin-state’ and an ethnic community a ‘kin minority group’?; 2) what are the principles, standards and instruments that regulate kin-state – kin minorities relations in Europe and how do they shape state practices?; and 3) what has been the impact of kin-state engagement? We conclude by highlighting the most prevalent issues in kin-state – kin minorities relations in Europe and advancing recommendations for further research in Southeast Europe.