International Roma Day: Still Facing Numerous Challenges and Human Rights Violations

(Patria) - Support and understanding of the importance of civil society for the protection and promotion of the rights of Roma and Sinti are of key importance. This is especially important considering that the OSCE continues to witness a shrinking space and a significant reduction in funding opportunities for human rights organizations and organizations monitoring the human rights situation of Roma and Sinti in the region, announced the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) on the occasion of International Roma Day, which is celebrated today.

“Roma civil society is vital for highlighting the multiple challenges faced by Roma and Sinti communities and for monitoring human rights violations whenever they occur,” said ODIHR Director Maria Telalian.

"Support for this important work must continue. We must all redouble our efforts to combat racism and discrimination and work towards creating a society where the rights of all Roma are respected."

The shrinking space for civil society also affects domestic human rights institutions and national equality bodies. Without adequate and sustainable funding for organizations advocating for Roma rights and helping to ensure effective redress for human rights violations, the climate of prejudice and intolerance towards Roma and Sinti can grow. At the same time, women's organizations and Roma and Sinti advocates need additional support to help address the complex challenges they face. Sustainable funding, administrative support, and measures for the development and strengthening of the skills and knowledge of Roma civil society are needed to ensure that their work is effective and can help Roma and Sinti take their full place in public and political life.

ODIHR is working to increase the inclusion of Roma by providing a space for dialogue between Roma civil society and governments across the OSCE region, helping to move towards more inclusive societies. The Office continues its work to combat racism and discrimination against Roma and Sinti by training Roma human rights defenders, as well as working with law enforcement agencies to ensure effective policing that is in line with human rights. This year, ODIHR will also publish guidelines for state human rights institutions and national equality bodies to better integrate Roma and Sinti issues into their work.

The OSCE has recognized the “specific challenges faced by Roma and Sinti and the need to take effective measures to achieve full equality of opportunity”. In addition to ensuring the implementation of laws and mechanisms and ensuring effective investigation of human rights violations against Roma and Sinti, states across the OSCE region also need to ensure equal and adequate access to support services, redress, and legal remedies for victims.

International Roma Day is an annual celebration of the contributions of Roma to our societies. This important day was established in 1990 after the 4th World Romani Congress and is celebrated every year on April 8th.