“Protecting Roma against discrimination: The Role of Equality Bodies”

Andriani PapadopoulouSenior Investigator/Human Rights Department/Greek Ombudsman

Protect Roma against discrimination

The need to protect Roma against discrimination arises from the fact that, in all European countries, irrespective of the degree, the majority of Roma people is marginalized, poor, and has no access [or easy access] to the goods and services which are generally available to all citizens

Forms of Discrimination

Direct

Indirect Systemic Individual

Harassment Instruction to discriminate

Equality Bodies’ Role

prevent discrimination

combat discrimination redress injustices done

Prevent Discrimination The EBs may use methods such as:

Intervene by informing the public services involved of the legal and practical ramifications of a situationMotivate the public servants to take action by offering alternative means to resolve the problem Address the members of the Roma community Assist in the co-ordination of the activities of the involved parties Publicize cases that are of general interest to the society Actively participate in changing attitudes/stereotypes

Combat practices/acts of discrimination

The EB may utilize methods such as:

Intervene in order to stop illegal acts Offer the administration alternative practical measures for resolving problematic situations Ensure compliance to the letter and the spirit of existing legislation by holding public servants accountable for their actionsPropose legislative and administrative changes Assist the administration to develop proper strategies which may lead to the social integration of the Roma. Apply and disseminate the decisions of ECHR on Roma

Redress injustice done

Defend the rights and the legal interests of the offended persons and propose ways for their compensation Recommend affirmative actions aimed at the social inclusion of minorities