Apart from the significance of the INV/IES and its program group for the promotion of science in general (and thus of course also in Slovenia), their significance and direct applicative value for Slovenia ought to be emphasized. The study of ethnicity contributes to a better knowledge and understanding of the ethnic situation and (inter)ethnic relations in Slovenia, which is important from the viewpoint of the managing of diversity. The social situation and migration waves will probably further increase and dinamize the existing diversity. Being well informed about the nature and functioning of human group distinction is the foundation of efficient regulation of environments where ethnic and other diversities exist. Contemporary production and programs of technological development demand integration of a number of types of economic migrants - from the high management to manpower at all production levels. Therefore the research work of the program group is of use in the shaping of integration policy which can contribute to the improvement of (inter)ethnic relations, and thus to better quality of life, which is an important material, and (even more) psychological condition for optimal life conditions and better productivity. The development of human resources (people with their knowledge, abilities, energy, ambitions, needs and interests, as well as their mutual relations, including their conflict potentials) is defined as an important factor of a sustainable development in plural postindustrial informational societies. Contemporary development paradigms are based upon successful managing, preservation and promotion of diversity (including the cultural, linguistic, ethnic, etc., plurality or diversity), as well as on the sustainable development with optimal use of local and other sources, among which belong the territory and the stage of development of communications within this territory. The study of relations of distinction, among them relations of ethnicity, and managing of diversity are important for the social planning and normative regulation, they contribute to better protection and status of minorities, to implementation of multiculturalism/interculturalism, to mobility, to strengthening of vital economic nuclei and better care for "boundary" territories (relations between the centre and the periphery), but also to more rational and optimal use of human, territorial and other resources. Integration processes signify the re-arrangement of stable relations between the culturally and linguistically different populations. Abolition of international borders and changing of their functions, the free market, competition, highly developed communication media and greater mobility of people (migrations) in the EU are accompanied by a clear political, legal and normative platform on multiculturalism, based upon the enforcement of human rights and prohibition of discrimination, as well as adequate integration policy and minority protection. The results of the program group work are useful in the implementation of some politically defined goals upon the incorporation of Slovenia into the EU, such as preserving and consolidation of national identity, preserving of treasures from the natural and cultural patrimony, together with the Slovene language and culture, ensuring of efficient communication, compatibility and competitive position within the European framework, establishing and developing of functional ties, as well as accessibility and quality of various services so within the national as within the European framework, balanced and sustainable development, etc. Research results of the program group are directly used in University undergraduate and (post)graduate programs, as well as various education and qualification programs.