Author
Elma Huruz Memović
Summary
Contemporary debates in political philosophy have been concerning with the topic of democratic decision-making and civic participation, their reach, values and purposes for a long time. Reduced citizen participation in political processes, disinterest and distrust were most commonly considered as a problem in these debates. Distrust and doubt, however, deepen and gain importance when individual groups within society do not have their representatives in legislative institutions to advocate for their interests.
In order to articulate group or minority demands, it is necessary to ensure their representation and participation in decision-making within political institutions. In this way, the dominant culture or cultures will not be able to override them when it comes to formulating policies relevant to their existence, such as education, employment, language, religious, cultural issues and others. The demand for recognition of the right to group representation actually reflects the desire of minority groups to gain recognition of their diversity and to achieve a greater degree of inclusion in existing social flows.
Key words
group identities, group interests, group rights, political representation, minority groups, legitimacy