Roma housing segregation

2019
united kingdom

Roma housing segregation refers to the practice of separating Roma communities from the general population and confining them to certain neighborhoods or settlements. This segregation is often the result of discrimination, prejudice, and social exclusion towards the Roma population.

Some common factors that contribute to Roma housing segregation include:

1. Discriminatory housing policies: Some governments have implemented policies that specifically target Roma communities, such as forcibly relocating them to segregated settlements or denying them access to housing in certain areas.

2. Social stigma and prejudice: Roma communities often face discrimination and prejudice from the general population, leading to their exclusion from mainstream society and the creation of segregated housing areas.

3. Economic inequality: Roma communities are often marginalized and economically disadvantaged, making it difficult for them to access affordable housing in desirable neighborhoods.

4. Lack of political representation: Roma populations are often underrepresented in political decision-making processes, leading to a lack of advocacy for their housing rights and needs.

Overall, Roma housing segregation perpetuates social inequality and reinforces the marginalization of Roma communities. Efforts to address this issue require a comprehensive approach that addresses not only housing access but also social inclusion, anti-discrimination policies, and community empowerment.

Further reading

Maestri G. (2019) "Bringing the Third Sector Back into Ghetto Studies: Roma Segregation and Civil Society Associations in Italy", Class, Ethnicity and State in the Polarized Metropolis: Putting Wacquant to Work, 255-280. Springer International Publishing. DOI: 10.1007/9783030162221_11