Developing an effective Romani integration strategy: experiences of ethnoculturally neutral and specific policies in the Czech Republic

Cashman, L. (2008) Developing an effective Romani integration strategy: experiences of ethnoculturally neutral and specific policies in the Czech Republic. Studies in Ethnicity and Nationalism, 8(3), pp. 595-618. (doi: 10.1111/j.1754-9469.2008.00027.x)

Abstract

While the question of how to integrate Romani communities has increased in political significance since the 1990s, a consensus has yet to be reached on how best to design integration policies for such a heterogeneous group of people. This article examines debates on whether ethnoculturally specific or neutral policies are more appropriate. Using the Czech Romani integration policy as a case study, it identifies as a significant problem the conflation of the Romani ethnic identity with the low socio-economic status of many (but not all) Roma. This has led to a policy focus on programmes to tackle social deprivation rather than addressing the discrimination which affects all Roma regardless of class. As a consequence of the decentralisation of power in the Czech Republic and the ingrained nature of anti-Romani prejudice, policies, whether ethnoculturally neutral or specific, will be implemented or rejected at the local level on the basis of local priorities.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Cashman, Dr Laura
• Authors: Cashman, L.
• Subjects: H Social Sciences > HT Communities. Classes. Races; J Political Science > JA Political science (General); D History General and Old World > DJ Netherlands (Holland) > DJK Eastern Europe
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences > Central and East European Studies
• Journal Name: Studies in Ethnicity and Nationalism
• ISSN: 1473-8481