EU-wide strategy once morest structural antigypsyism must be implemented
Brussels/Vienna (OTS) – The 8. AprilInternational Roma Day, has been drawing attention to centuries of discrimination and antigypsyism for over 50 years.
“We are deeply concerned regarding the discrepancy between declarations and commitments to a strong social Europe and the living conditions of Roma and Sinti in different member states. High rates of long-term unemployment and poor training opportunities exacerbate social exclusion,” explains Monika Vana, head of the Austrian Green Party delegation in the European Parliament.
“It is unacceptable that 12 million Roma and Sinti:ze in Europe, of which at least 6 million are EU citizens, are still confronted with structural discrimination today. Fundamental and human rights must apply to everyone, regardless of religion, nationality or ethnic origin. As the European Parliament, we demand from the European Commission and the Member States that through appropriate short and long-term strategies supported by sufficient EU and national funds, in particular through the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF ), the situation of Rom:nia and Sinti:ze will be improved! All direct and indirect forms of discrimination must be eliminated!” Vana emphasizes.
“The European Social Fund (ESF+), among other things, at our pressure, provides at least 25 percent for social inclusion by 2027, especially for areas that affect Roma and Sinti:ze. The EU is finally investing in combating antigypsyism. But the Member States and regions also have to collect and invest these funds,” concludes Vana.
Questions & contact:
Green Club in Parliament
Office of Dr. Monika Vana MEP
monika.vana@europarl.europa.eu
