In a context of rapid growth, an increasing proportion of minorities and indigenous peoples are now living in urban areas. But while they offer the possibility of greater freedoms, improved livelihoods and more equitable opportunities, cities often magnify existing patterns of discrimination and insecurity.

Minorities and indigenous peoples are under increasing threat from governments and private companies wanting to benefit from the resources found on or under their lands. Despite the growing recognition of their rights in international

In the year that saw the establishment of a new UN agency for women, minority and indigenous women faced systematic violence, discrimination and marginalization. Both their identity as women and their membership of disadvantaged communities placed them at risk.

In the year that saw the establishment of a new UN agency for women, minority and indigenous women faced systematic violence, discrimination and marginalization. Both their identity as women and their membership of disadvantaged communities placed them at risk.

In State of the World's Minorities and Indigenous Peoples 2010, Minority Rights Group International offers a comprehensive overview of the situation faced by minorities in a world increasingly divided along religious lines.