ABSTRACT
The theory of international regimes is concerned with the permanent institutionalization and co-operative regulation of conflicts by a number of states. Existing multilateral regimes function exclusively as inter-state diplomatic processes between governments. Confidence-building measures are also central components of every piece of conflict management, particularly in the containment of ethno-national conflicts, which many states regard as the main source of instability. The institutionalization of the Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe (CSCE) process included the creation of the Conflict Prevention Centre (CPC) in Vienna. The establishment of a minorities' charter or convention has been proposed by various sides as a method of preventing destructive conflict. The creation of the High Commission on National Minorities, as a result of increased awareness of the ethnic factor following a large number of new ethno-national conflicts in Europe, came late and with an insufficient mandate.
