On International Roma Day OSCE Mission to Serbia notes progress made and highlights need for continuing efforts to improve situation of Roma in Serbia

BELGRADE, 8 April 2015 – On the occasion of the International Roma Day, the Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia, Ambassador Peter Burkhard, voiced the need for continued action to improve the situation of members of the Roma community in Serbia and create conditions for the full inclusion of Roma into wider society.

“We are witnessing that Roma continue to face obstacles in almost all aspects of everyday life,” said Burkhard. “It is essential that the state authorities, together with Roma representatives and civil society, in partnership with the international community, continue to work jointly on finding realistic and sustainable solutions.”

Since the adoption of the 2009 Serbian National Strategy for the Improvement of the Status of Roma, the legal and policy framework has been enhanced. “The time has now come to strengthen the system that is necessary to implement these policies,” said Burkhard.

“Despite remaining issues, we have also noticed improvements in co-ordination between ministries, local governments and civil society in general and Roma civil society organizations in particular. These steps have led to better life conditions for all ethnic minorities, especially Roma women, while ensuring greater equality in public and political life.”

“We are confident that all stakeholders in Serbia will continue with their efforts towards a participatory, inclusive and fully integrated society which honours and respects diversity,” said Burkhard.

The OSCE Mission to Serbia through its programmes remains dedicated to supporting the efforts of both state institutions and Roma civil-society organizations in working towards improvement of the socio-economic status and full Roma inclusion in Serbian society.