Questions and Answers
The following questions and answers give a basic overview of the topic. Links are provided to articles with further information.
If you have suggestions for further questions please email info@durbanreview.org
Who are Roma and Sinti?
Roman and Sinti are two ethnic and cultural groups who live spread through central and eastern Europe. They speak various dialects of the Romani language and have their own cultural traditions, music and customs. Roma (or Romani) is a term sometimes used to refer to both groups, but the Sinti consider themselves a separate and distinct group, with differences in traditions and language.
Are they Gypsies?
The term "Gypsy" was formerly in common use to refer to Roma and Sinti but less accepted now since it has become a pejorative term. Some Roma, however, still prefer Gypsy or Traveller as more inclusive terms. See more (external link).
Why did they face discrimination?
Believed to have originated from India, the Roma and Sinti are dark-skinned people who faced racial discrimination. In addition, they lived separate lives, often nomadic, and were therefore treated with suspicion by the settled peoples of Europe. In Nazi Germany, hundreds of thousands were murdered in an attempted genocide and in communist Europe they faced forced assimilation and restrictions on their music, language and culture.
Do they still face discmination?
Yes. A report of the European Commission in 2008 found extreme poverty, social exclusion, and racism. Unemployment is widespread and many Roma live in sub-standard housing. As recently as 2004 there were reports of forced sterilisations of Roma in the Czech Republic and Slovakia continued into the 21st Century. In Italy, a court in 2008 ruled it was permissable to discminate against Roma because they were associated with theft.
Other articles on discrimination against Roma and Sinti
For related articles, visit the Roma and Sinti section of Durban Review or select from the articles below. Other anti-racism themes, conference details, and news are available from the Durban Review home page.
- Questions and Answers
A series of questions and answers on the topic of discrimination against the Roma and Sinti. - Europe's Largest Minority Roma and Sinti Demand Equal Rights
Romani Rose, Chairman of the Central Council of German Sinti and Roma, introduced the Roma and Sinti and the discrimination they face - Hard Times for Europe's Gypsies
This New York Times article outlines the difficulties faced by Europe's Roma and Sinti (external link) - Bottom of the heap
The Economist takes an in depth look at the Roma (external link)
