This exclusion — which is the result of administrative restrictions — can be easily addressed by a Government that has the political will to undo the restrictive regulations. Together with its smaller numerical size, a minority group is often characterized as such on the basis of distinct ethnic, religious, linguistic or cultural characteristics. The population of many countries is multi-ethnic, multilinguistic and multireligious. Religious minorities have also been subject to discrimination and outright persecution. The right of minority groups to be considered equal is normally guaranteed constitutionally, although their social integration requires strong political will to enforce the relevant laws. In addition, the population at large needs to accept minority groups as equal members of society.