Protection of Roma/Gypsies as a minority in Europe, with special focus on France.

Abstract

The main motive of this work is to present as clearly as possible the situation of Roma and Gypsies in the European territory and highlight the measures already taken in favor at all levels, the probable gaps in policies’ mapping out and the suitable “exits” to surpass the difficulties aiming at ameliorating their socio-economic status. In particular, Chapter 1 of Part I presents their history within Europe and Chapter 2 outlines the relevant policy framework in Europe and internationally. Then, Chapter 3 informs us about how their situation is reflected in a number of key sectoral fields and in what way the European Union has taken action (are the member states showing commitment to improve their lot?). A special chapter is endorsed referring to the litigation at national level in cases involving discrimination against Roma (in the context of racially based police investigations). Part II is wholly dedicated to France by making first a historical flashback to the internment camps during the German invasion (1940-1946) reaching and discussing afterwards the Roma’s current (complicated) situation in the territory, how and if they are protected by the law and to what direction lies the French governmental policy. At the end, the recommendations show the way forward with respect notably to EU member states and the civil society.