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Roma People

Answer

The Government remain concerned about the violence and discrimination Roma continue to face in many parts of Europe. While countries hold the primary responsibility for promoting the inclusion of all their communities, there is scope for international co-operation too. In Bulgaria, our embassy regularly raises Roma integration issues with the Bulgarian government, and has joined other European Union missions in discussing the issues with the Deputy Prime Minister. In Romania, our embassy regularly raises the situation of the Roma and the national integration strategy with the responsible State Secretary (Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State equivalent). In addition our embassy raises Roma issues with a wide range of political, ecumenical and non-governmental organisation contacts, and has facilitated links between UK and Romanian partners, and funded UK experts, to share best practice on Roma inclusion in schools. We have also supported Roma health mediators to improve access for the Roma to the healthcare system. Our embassy in the Czech Republic regularly discusses issues affecting the Roma community with representatives of the Czech Government, including the Czech human rights commissioner. Our ambassador has been active in meeting Roma communities too. Earlier this year two student interns focussed on Roma issues joined the embassy to help enhance our understanding. In Slovakia our Embassy raises this issue at an official level. In addition, the chargé d’affaires called on the special representative for Roma issues shortly after he was appointed. Our embassy also funds several Roma projects, including on educational attainment.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

14541; 734 c72-3WA

Session

2010-12

Subjects

Bulgaria Czechia Romania Slovakia Roma

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk