Amnesty International and Pavee Point welcome the European Council’s recommendation on effective Roma integration strategies in the member states.
The recommendation comes in reaction to the EU Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies, established in 2011. This called on member states to develop national Roma Inclusion Strategies. The majority of these strategies were weak, not implemented, and failed to deliver integration, with systematic and ongoing discrimination against Roma within the EU.
Colm O’Gorman, Executive Director of Amnesty International, said: “Discrimination of Roma in the EU is a form of racism. The Recommendation sends a strong message to member states; they must effectively fight and end discrimination against Roma and Travellers, and ensure their inclusion in all levels of society.”
Martin Collins, co-director of Pavee Point Traveller and Roma Centre, said “It is clear that an effective strategy for Roma and Traveller inclusion is needed in Ireland.”
“Ireland has yet to show a real commitment to developing a progressive integration strategy. Since Ireland submitted its National Traveller Roma Integration Strategy in 2011, the European Commission has conducted two assessments across all member states. Both exposed serious gaps in Ireland’s strategy. Ireland received a shocking score of four out of 22 in the Commission’s most recent assessment.
We now need to see leadership from Ireland to develop a strategy that will make positive changes in our communities. Our strategy needs clear actions and Travellers and Roma need to be included in the development of this.”
See Council Recommendation http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/docs/pressdata/en/lsa/139979.pdf