Slovenia and the Roma

Posted by Kerry Kubilius Nov 17, 2006

The Roma, commonly known as Gypsies, often face social injustices from communities that see them as inferior. Problems exist on either side - the Roma have a culture that is quite different from that of the mainstream society, but the ethnic majority do not necessarily seek to solve problems, accept differences, or offer opportunities for integration.

One of the most recent instances to make the news is the eviction of a Roma family from their home in Slovenia. While the Council of Europe's Human Rights has cried foul, the local population has staged protests to prevent the Roma family from returning to their village.

Widespread discrimination against the Roma has long been a problem. In a world where literacy, education, and language can make or break potential, the Roma are at a severe disadvantage. This disadvantage is only made worse by biases in public schools, in the workforce, with politics, and elsewhere throughout communities in Eastern Europe.