ABSTRACT
In this chapter we shall focus on analysing the differences between liberal democratic and authoritarian systems with regard to ethnic policy. In particular we will stress the persistence of authoritarian practices with regard to ethnicity and ethnic minorities in both established liberal democracies and in ‘new democracies’, especially the ones that have emerged from former Eastern Europe communist systems. We shall explore the extent to which the ‘ethnicity card’ is used and manipulated by the established elites to further their own interests and goals. Finally, this chapter will discuss the role of ethnic movements in the transition from authoritarian to democratic rule.
