The first chapter is an introduction to the complex and involved area of political participation of minorities, which is unquestionably an important aspect of the broad body of minority rights. Chapter 2 deals with the international framework for minority political participation and representation, both on a universal and regional level and on a legal and political level. The third chapter builds logically on chapter 2 covering the international standards in the field, examining the political and legal requirements of the EU on minority rights in relation to Western Balkan states. Chapter 4 elaborates on the historical and institutional background and the premises for and types of political dialogue between minorities and the majority population. Chapter 5 presents a series of case studies which examines minorities and political parties in a number of South-Eastern European countries. This chapter analyses the states’ international commitments, legislation, practices and policies to address the need for appropriate political participation and representation of minorities within their borders. Each country study emphasises positive provisions, practices and policies and highlights existing problems and future challenges. The problem of minority inclusion in government decision-making is the subject of chapter 6, which outlines the various forms of political representation, either through MPs, governing coalitions or distinctive modes of cultural autonomy, each as a typical model attached to a particular South-Eastern European state. Chapter 7 examines the burning issue of decentralization, predominantly seen through the experience of Macedonia and Serbia.