On the occasion of the International Roma Day on 8 of April, the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) called on Member States to pull together to combat Roma discrimination, prejudice, poverty and social exclusion. In addition, it announced that next 30 of April, the European Commission will come forward with a new communication on the integration of Roma.

The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) called for working together to end vicious cycle of Roma discrimination and social exclusion. On the occasion of the International Roma Day on 8 of April, FRA Director Morten Kjaerum, stressed that discrimination perpetuates the vicious circle of poverty and social exclusion. According to Mr Kjaerum, to break this circle, Europe need an integrated approach that promotes access to housing, employment, education and healthcare simultaneously. In June 2011, EU leaders already endorsed Roma integration plan.

FRA also warns that Roma people are also affected by anti-Roma hate crime and hate speech. A previous FRA survey highlighted, for instance, that 60% of Roma respondents had experienced ethnic discrimination when looking for work. International Roma Day raises awareness about the issues Roma face, and it is also a day to celebrate Romani culture and their contribution to culture, music, and the arts.

On 30 April, the first results of new surveys by the FRA and UNDP and the World Bank will be published. This new report will provide robust and comparative data from 2011 on the socio-economic status of Roma alongside data on how they enjoy their rights in practice. The same day, the European Commission will also publish a new communication on the integration of Roma, that will pave the way for more targeted and sustainable national approaches and strategies, including the effective use of EU structural funds, and the systematic measurement of progress on the ground.