This page serves as an introduction to researching the Roma diaspora within the broader context of multicultural Europe. Roma, a historically marginalized ethnic group, have a long and complex history across the continent. Their experiences, cultural contributions, and political status vary by country, making them a key focus in discussions of European diversity and minority rights.T his guide provides access to scholarly materials, historical insights, policy discussions, and cultural perspectives to support research on Roma identity and inclusion in European societies.
Source: Council of Europe Roma and Travelers Divison, July 2008
Adopted in 2011, this framework was the first EU-wide initiative aimed at improving the socio-economic inclusion of Roma communities. It focused on four key areas: education, employment, healthcare, and housing, urging Member States to develop national strategies tailored to their Roma populations. The framework sought to combat discrimination and improve Roma access to essential services while ensuring better coordination between national governments and EU institutions.
Launched in 2020, this framework builds on the previous initiative while introducing stronger anti-discrimination measures and clearer goals. It emphasizes three key pillars: ensuring Roma equality by combating antigypsyism, fostering socio-economic inclusion, and increasing Roma participation in political and civic life. The framework sets specific 2030 targets, such as reducing the gap in poverty levels, improving access to education and healthcare, and strengthening representation in decision-making. Member States are encouraged to collect better data and implement national strategies with measurable outcomes.
April 8 marks International Roma Day, a time to celebrate Romani culture, history, and contributions while raising awareness of the discrimination and challenges faced by Romani communities worldwide. Established in 1990, Roma Day commemorates the first World Romani Congress held in 1971 in Orpington, England. The day highlights the ongoing fight for Romani rights, recognition, and justice across Europe and beyond. The European Union Center is excited to announce its upcoming event celebrating Roma this year.
Roma, often referred to as Europe’s largest ethnic minority, have a complex and often marginalized history across the continent. From centuries of persecution to present-day struggles with discrimination, social exclusion, and systemic inequality, Romani communities have continuously fought for rights, representation, and cultural preservation. Scholars and activists engage with these issues through interdisciplinary research in fields such as sociology, political science, music, and gender studies.
Dr. Margareta (Magda) Matache – Lecturer at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Director of the Roma Program at the FXB Center for Health and Human Rights. Dr. Matache’s research examines racism, structural discrimination, reparations, and the social determinants of health, particularly in relation to anti-Roma racism.
A new recording is now available on the EU Center's YouTube page. This lecture, given by Dr. Margareta (Magda) Matache on April 10, 2025, explores the different ways anti-Roma racism manifests across Europe and its effects on the lives, well-being, and health of Roma people. Dr. Matache argues that, although these manifestations may seem unrelated, sporadic, or even chaotic at first glance, they form a consistent machinery of structural racism.
Join us in celebrating Roma Day and engaging with these scholars to learn more about Romani experiences, culture, and activism
Covers the history of the world (excluding the United States and Canada) from 1450 to the present, including world history, military history, women's history, history of education, and more. Provides indexing of more than 1,700 academic historical journals in over 40 languages back to 1955. Alternate version: Historical Abstracts with Full Text in the classic EBSCO user interface (best for exporting more than 50 results or combining saved searches).
Roma Education Fund
Research and programs dedicated to improving educational opportunities for Roma communities.
European Commission – Roma Equality & Inclusion
The European Commission’s main hub for Roma-related policies, funding, and national strategies.
European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) – Roma & Travellers
Reports, statistics, and legal insights on Roma rights and discrimination across the EU.
European Roma Rights Centre (ERRC)
A major advocacy group providing legal support and reports on Roma rights violations.
Romani Studies Journal (Published by Liverpool University Press)
Leading peer-reviewed journal focusing on the Roma and related populations.
Decade of Roma Inclusion (2005–2015)
Archived but valuable for research on state policy and regional inclusion efforts in Eastern Europe.
Roma: An umbrella term for various Romani groups, officially adopted at the First World Romani Congress in 1971 to replace the exonym "Gypsy"
Romani: Adjective relating to the Roma people, their language, and culture.
Rom: Singular noun for a male member of the Roma community; "Romni" refers to a female member
Sinti: A subgroup of the Romani people, primarily found in Germany, Austria, and parts of France and Italy
Kalderash: A subgroup traditionally associated with metalworking, speaking dialects of Vlax Romani
Manush (Manouche): A subgroup found mainly in France and Italy, closely related to the Sinti
Lovara: A subgroup traditionally known for horse trading, primarily located in Central and Eastern Europe
Romanichal: A Romani subgroup native to the British Isles, particularly England .
Dom / Domari: An Indo-Aryan ethnic group related to the Roma, found in the Middle East
Lom / Lomavren: A related group residing in Armenia and Georgia
Sources: RomArchive USC Shoa Foundation