Launch: The Siena Recommendations on Contested Histories and National Minorities

Disputes over historical narratives and their tangible representation have the potential to contribute to tensions within and between States. Historical narratives can elicit pride in some members of the population while causing a sense of injustice, anger or disenfranchisement among others. These dynamics often involve national minority issues.

There is no specific international legal framework governing how States can and should regulate decisions over historical narratives or symbols and there is little guidance on conflict prevention approaches that aim to reduce tensions related to contested histories.

In response, the HCNM has developed The Siena Recommendations on Contested Histories and National Minorities (Siena Recommendations) to offer practical guidance for governments and local authorities that are dealing with issues of contested histories, based in international law and drawing on the experience of the successive HCNMs and expert analysis. This is the HCNM’s 11th set of recommendations and guidelines.

At this event, held in co-operation with the University of Siena, the Siena Recommendations will be presented to the participating States. The programme includes an introduction followed by panel discussions with experts and practitioners who will reflect on how the Siena Recommendations can be applied in specific contexts where differing interpretations of history have led to tensions or have the potential to contribute to tensions. The participants will examine principles, processes and good practices in dealing with contestations over historical narratives, including through case studies in a number of policy areas, ranging from the public space to education, to showcase the practical applicability for future use by decision-makers and educators at the local, regional and national levels.

Language: English.

Participation is by invitation only. The conference will also be livestreamed on the HCNM’s youtube channel.