Christina Kotrotsou, Vanta Tsakatara, Despena Andrioti
Roma people form the largest ethnic-minority group in Europe. They account for around 10 to 12 million people, and they face racism, discrimination and social exclusion in most countries. The Roma population of Greece currently numbersaround 250 000 individuals. They have Greek nationality and enjoy the same rights, privileges and responsibilities as any other Greek citizens. Nevertheless, Roma in Greece face multiple inequalities and social exclusion in terms of housing,employment, education, and health and social services. In this report we present the outcome of a best practice initiative. Medical social centres operate in 33 Roma settlements all over the country. These centres provide vaccination, health promotion, disease prevention and health education services, as well as support in issuing documents and makingappointments with health and social services. We recommend that the National Strategic Framework for Roma 2012–2020 (http://ec.europa.eu/justice/discrimination/roma/national-strategies/index_en.htm) builds on this initiative to provide comprehensive, cost-effective housing, employment, education and health services to Greek and undocumented Roma. Furthermore, Roma should be encouraged to participate in the creation of this policy.
