They are often faced with structural obstacles, such as a ceiling to the level of their promotion within an organisation. In particular, systemic discrimination based on ethnic origin is unfortunately deeply rooted in certain societies. The Roma population suffers more than other minorities is this respect. In addition, women and girls belonging to certain minority groups can experience multiple discrimination. Minorities living in economically depressed areas or conflict zones are particularly affected by all forms of discrimination. Moreover, in the present economic recession, minorities are disproportionally affected by redundancy measures. 2. Measures to be taken by State parties To combat effectively all forms of discrimination and to promote the participation in economic life of persons belonging to national minorities, the adoption of a certain number of measures is essential, namely : • Comprehensive legislation - State parties to the Framework Convention should adopt comprehensive legislation prohibiting discrimination in access to employment on ethnic and other grounds, by public as well as private actors. • Positive or specific measures : States should also adopt positive or specific measures which aim at promoting the access to full employment of persons belonging to these minorities, in both the public and private sectors. These should include : - policies and strategies which aim at promoting the effective participation of persons belonging to national minorities in economic life ;