Where are we on the road towards truth, reconciliation and transitional justice for Roma communities? Following the EU-funded CHACHIPEN project’s in-depth examination of the status quo in four EU Member States – Germany, Romania, Spain and Sweden – as well as at the EU level, this policy brief seeks to conduct a ‘reality check’ and assess any recent progress.
Over the past three years, new policies have been tabled to pave the way towards meaningful Roma inclusion and to address the many instances of historical injustice faced by these communities. This new analysis shows that beyond big plans and lofty ambitions, the process of achieving systemic justice seems to be threatened by constant interruptions, delays and changing political will.
Most of the measures that would acknowledge past and present injustices fall short of practical implementation. By and large, Roma remain forgotten: political, cultural and linguistic representation is hollow; equitable policies are few and far between, while violence, exclusion and discrimination persist. Justice should not be subject to the whims of those wielding political power – thus, beyond describing the current reality, this policy brief is also a call to action for national governments and the EU alike. The recommendations call for systemic change and a coherent, EU-wide approach, shaped by Roma people and supported by their lived experiences and testimonies.
This policy brief was originally published on the JEKHIPE project website. Anabel Carballo-Mesa, Ismail Cortés, Dezső Máté, Iulius Rostas and Jan Selling also contributed to this report.
