The Rights of Roma Children and Women
A comparative review and further analysis of findings from Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys in Roma settlements in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Serbia.
Highlights
Of the 12 million Roma people living in Europe, half are thought to be under the age of 18. These children face significant challenges. Roma girls and boys face discrimination that often starts before they are even born, with Roma mothers lacking adequate prenatal and maternal health care, and that continues to shape their lives as they grow. It is crucial to break the vicious cycle of discrimination as early as possible through adequate support for Roma children at home, in public services and in society at large.
The Rights of Roma Children and Women in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Serbia documents how Roma children fare in comparison to national averages for all children, and outlines the achievements that have been made in their social inclusion in the three countries. It confirms that Roma boys and girls can have a fair start in life, enjoy a better childhood, contribute to their own culture and join their fellow citizens in building the economies and societies of their countries. This major UNICEF study provides vital knowledge to support the strengthening of national capacities to track, reach, protect and include the most disadvantaged children, including those from Roma communities.
