The Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Michael O’Flaherty, has released three Memoranda examining the human rights situation of Roma and Traveller communities in Finland, Ireland, and Slovakia. These documents, based on the Commissioner’s recent visits to the three countries, highlight both progress and persistent challenges in addressing systemic discrimination and inequality faced by these communities.
The visits are part of the Commissioner’s broader priority work on advancing the human rights of Roma and Travellers across the Council of Europe area. While each country has made strides in policy development and inclusion efforts, the Memoranda underscore the urgent need for stronger implementation and targeted action to combat antigypsyism, discrimination, and marginalisation.
Finland: Progress Amid Persistent Challenges
Finland has demonstrated commitment to promoting Roma rights through initiatives such as the third National Roma Policy and the long-standing National Advisory Board on Romani Affairs. The recent launch of an Action Plan to combat racism and promote equality, which specifically includes Roma, is another positive step.
However, the Commissioner notes that antigypsyism and discrimination remain pervasive, affecting Roma in areas such as employment, housing, and education. Roma women and youth face intersectional discrimination, while Roma from other EU member states often experience additional marginalisation. To address these issues, the Commissioner recommends:
- Securing adequate, long-term funding for Roma inclusion initiatives.
- Tackling all forms of discrimination and amplifying Roma voices in policymaking.
- Addressing the specific needs of women, youth, and Roma from other EU countries.
- Fostering a supportive environment for Roma civil society.
Ireland: Ambitious Strategies Meet Structural Barriers
Ireland has developed ambitious strategies to protect the rights of Travellers and Roma, including a new National Traveller and Roma Inclusion Strategy informed by extensive community consultation. Despite these efforts, structural anti-Traveller racism and antigypsyism continue to hinder progress.
Key concerns include over-policing, the overrepresentation of Travellers in the criminal justice system, substandard housing conditions, educational inequalities, and poor health outcomes. The Commissioner calls for:
- Stronger political commitment to dismantle entrenched discrimination.
- Sustainable funding for peer-led initiatives, particularly in mental health.
- Culturally appropriate accommodation and improved living conditions.
- Addressing systemic inequalities in education and healthcare.
Slovakia: Commitment Meets Implementation Gaps
Slovakia has shown dedication to improving the human rights situation of Roma through its National Strategy of Equality, Inclusion, and Participation of Roma by 2030 and related action plans. Initiatives to improve healthcare access for marginalised Roma communities are particularly commendable.
However, the Commissioner stresses the need for more effective implementation, especially at the local level. Critical issues include inadequate living conditions, discrimination in healthcare, and the segregation of Roma children in education. Recommendations include:
- Urgent measures to improve living conditions and prevent further deterioration of human rights.
- Integrated, long-term strategic plans tailored to local needs.
- Addressing discrimination in healthcare, particularly for women and girls.
- Establishing a compensation mechanism for victims of forced sterilisation.
- Ending school segregation and ensuring inclusive, quality education for Roma children.
A Call for Decisive Action
Commissioner O’Flaherty welcomed the commitment shown by Finland, Ireland, and Slovakia but emphasised the need for more decisive action. “Now more than ever, all relevant authorities must combat antigypsyism, ensure equality, and guarantee the representation and participation of Roma and Travellers in decision-making and beyond,” he stated.
The Memoranda serve as a crucial reminder that while policy frameworks are essential, their success depends on robust implementation, adequate funding, and a genuine commitment to addressing systemic discrimination. The human rights of Roma and Travellers must remain a priority, not only in these three countries but across Europe.
> Commissioner’s Memorandum on the human rights situation of Roma in Finland and the comments of the authorities of Finland on the Commissioner’s Memorandum
> Commissioner’s Memorandum on the human rights situation of Travellers and Roma in Ireland and the comments of the authorities of Ireland on the Commissioner’s Memorandum
> Commisisoner’s Memorandum on the human rights situation of Roma in Slovakia and the comments of the authorities of Slovakia on the Commissioner’s Memorandum
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