Report: Roma in Estonia need natl strategy to improve their situation

TALLINN – The Estonian Human Rights Center, in cooperation with the Central European University, published a monitoring report that shows that Estonia lacks a national strategic framework specifically addressing Roma.

The report highlights that the lack of data on the situation of Roma in Estonia makes it difficult to assess the effectiveness of measures. Due to the lack of research and a clear strategy, several bottlenecks have remained unresolved for decades -- for example, the low participation of Roma children in early childhood education, the short and interrupted education path, and high unemployment. There is no reliable overview of the extent of discrimination against Roma, especially in healthcare and employment. In addition, inadequate legislation contributes to the spread of hostility towards Roma and other marginalized groups in Estonia. According to the Human Rights Center, Roma NGOs lack resources and institutional support, which hinders their ability to stand up for their rights and participate in policy-making.

According to one of the authors, Egert Rünne, both national and international organizations have been waiting for years for Estonia to develop a national strategic framework for Roma, or at least include a clear Roma-focused strategy in integration programs, with measurable indicators and specific measures. This would help highlight the needs and concerns of the Roma community and ensure their rights.

Although the mentorship service in Valga has had a positive impact, especially in the field of education, it is the only consistent activity aimed at Roma inclusion. In addition, its geographical scope is unfortunately limited.

The lack of baseline data, systematic monitoring and a clear strategic approach hinder progress. The report recommends establishing indicators in line with EU objectives, collecting related data and conducting research, implementing targeted measures -- such as expanding mentorship services -- and ensuring the systematic participation of Roma organizations in the development, implementation and evaluation of measures. Strengthening cooperation between state institutions and local governments and involving Roma in policy-making are critical to achieving sustainable change.

The report was prepared by Human Rights Center experts Egert Rünne and Liina Laanpere to assess the effectiveness of Estonia's integration policy towards Roma, analyze its coherence with the EU's Roma-focused strategic framework and highlight areas for improvement. The findings are based on qualitative research, including interviews with representatives of the Roma civil society and the community, relevant state institutions, and written consultations with other stakeholders, including local governments and schools.

The report was prepared as part of the initiative "Preparatory Action -- Roma Civil Monitoring -- Strengthening capacity and involvement of Roma and pro-Roma civil society in policy monitoring and review" implemented by a consortium led by the Democracy Institute of Central European University (DI/CEU), including the European Roma Grassroots Organizations Network (ERGO Network), the Fundación Secretariado Gitano (FSG) and the European Roma Rights Center (ERRC). The initiative was funded by the European Commission’s Directorate-General Justice and Consumers (DG Just).