Europe’s Roma at risk from austerity measures, OSCE Roma adviser tells US Helsinki Commission

WASHINGTON, D.C., 15 February 2012 – The persisting financial crisis significantly worsens prospects for integrating Europe’s Roma and Sinti populations and combating intolerance and violence targeting this minority in many countries, the head of the OSCE Contact Point for Roma and Sinti Issues, Andrzej Mirga, told the United States Helsinki Commission today.

As governments in the OSCE region are facing tough decisions to reduce public spending and keep national debt under control, efforts to advance the integration of Roma minorities into mainstream society risk becoming a victim of austerity measures, Mirga warned. 

“Most problems facing Roma and Sinti populations have by no means been resolved and, for the most part, these minorities have not yet benefited from lasting improvements in human rights and social inclusion; this is unfinished business in Europe that requires much stronger and longer-term interventions at national and European levels,” he stressed.

In a disturbing development, some local authorities are actively pursuing policies aimed at forcing Roma and Sinti from their communities, Mirga said: “Exclusion or separation is openly advocated in some municipalities, including in the segregation of children in educational systems.” There are also cases of local authorities refusing to accept or request state aid aimed at supporting Roma communities, he added.

Mirga called for renewed commitments to promote tolerance and prevent violence motivated by racism; and stressed the crucial role of the media in combating discrimination and prejudices against minorities.

He also highlighted the need for more focus on education: “The best way to deal with the future consequences of today’s economic difficulties is to invest in education. This is particularly the case for the Roma and Sinti, who suffer the most from a lack of education and skills.”

The Contact Point for Roma and Sinti Issues is part of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions (ODIHR) and assists participating States in implementing their commitments under the 2003 OSCE Action Plan on Roma and Sinti.

In 2011, ODIHR was awarded EU funding for a major regional project in the Western Balkans aimed at strengthening the capacity of national and local governments in enhancing the integration of Roma and related groups into society.