19th UN Forum on Minority Issues

 

Under this agenda item, the Forum will analyse how representations of minorities in public spaces reflect and shape national narratives and identities. The discussion will be focused on the representation of national or ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities in public spaces, including in street names, monuments and architecture and in the context of symbolically important celebrations and holidays. The role and place of minorities in memorial policies and practices will also be examined, as will the representation of prominent figures, including historical figures, from minority groups. Specific emphasis will be placed on the participation of minorities in decisions relating to such representation and on the incorporation of a gender perspective. In addition, the Forum will review legislation, policies and practices that either permit persons belonging to minorities to display religious or cultural symbols in public spaces or restrict such displays.

This panel will be focused on the portrayal of minorities in education, which plays a crucial role in shaping how minorities see themselves and how they are perceived by society. The Forum will highlight the key role of education in ensuring that all students learn about the existence, unique characteristics and contribution to society as a whole of minority groups, with an emphasis on promoting a curriculum that reflects diversity. The Forum will also explore how minority students can effectively exercise their right to learn about their own history and culture, highlighting the significant role of education in ensuring intergenerational transmission and reducing intercommunal tensions. A central theme will be the need for the active participation of minorities in shaping educational policies, ensuring that their perspectives are taken into account throughout the process.

In this panel, the Forum will explore the role of traditional and social media in shaping public perceptions of minorities. The panel will be focused on both challenges and opportunities that minorities face in portraying themselves in the media. The Forum will examine how minorities are often misrepresented through scapegoating, polarizing rhetoric, hate speech and disinformation campaigns. Examples of inclusive and positive media discourse will also be highlighted. A key focus will be on addressing algorithmic biases in social media to prevent the marginalization and stereotyping of minority groups. The Forum will also explore multilingual and minority language media, showcasing how media platforms can preserve and promote minority cultures and traditions. Participants will reflect on good practices that foster diversity and encourage a more inclusive and accurate representation of minorities in the media.