In almost every age of history, Roma people have been subjected to many pressures such as social exclusion, stigmatization, symbolic violence, marginalization, isolation, exiles, forced settlements and assimilation by the people of the countries they passed through or were hosted in. Important decisions were taken to promote cooperation in the fight against discrimination at the World Roma Congress, which was held on April 8, 1971 to discuss these problems experienced by Roma people. In 1990, it was decided to celebrate April 8, the day when the Congress convened, as “World Roma Day.” With the Presidential Circular No. 2021/7, it has been decided to celebrate this day as “Roma Day” in our country.

In the Article 1 of International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the term racial discrimination was defined as “any distinction, exclusion, restriction or preference based on race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin which has the purpose or effect of nullifying or impairing the recognition, enjoyment or exercise, on an equal footing, of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural or any other field of public life.” Considering that discrimination against Roma people is essentially based on their ethnicity and lifestyle, prevention and elimination of racism, intolerance and structural discrimination, including hate speech, which prevent Roma people from participating in society are of great importance.

Fighting racism and xenophobia is a requirement for the protection and dissemination of universal, inviolable and indivisible human rights. In this regard, it is important to develop effective, inclusive and egalitarian policies and strategies in all areas of life, from education to employment, from health to housing, in order to protect and promote the human rights of Roma people at international level.

Our Institution, main mission of which is to guarantee the right of humans to be treated equally on the basis of human dignity, to prevent discrimination in the enjoyment of legally recognized rights and freedoms, celebrates “International Roma Day,” hoping for an egalitarian society where all kinds of prejudice and discrimination against Roma people end.

Respectfully announced to the public.