The Roma "Problem"

Posted by Kerry Kubilius May 10, 2006

The Roma (known most commonly, but incorrectly, as "Gypsies) in Eastern Europe are one of the most misunderstood ethnic groups there. Due to cultural clashes between the Roma and mainstream society, the Roma in Eastern Europe have been subject to various forms of discrimination, including education discrimination, job discrimination, and housing discrimination.

Countries like Romania deal with large orphan populations of Roma babies--babies who are given up by unwed Roma mothers. These babies have been typically undesirable to Romanians who would otherwise adopt. And, with Romania gearing up to join the EU, all international adoptions have come to a halt.

This Slate gallery by Andrew Miksys illustrates Roma life in Lithuania.