OSCE Mission supports relocation of Gazela Roma settlement
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BELGRADE, 1 September 2008 - The Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia, Ambassador Hans Ola Urstad, said today he supported the efforts of the authorities of the City of Belgrade to identify alternative accommodation for families of the Roma settlement under the Gazela bridge.
"I have been closely following the relocation planning process, and believe that the implementation of the relocation plan is a potential win-win situation for everyone concerned. It is shocking to see families living in such squalor," said Ambassador Hans Ola Urstad.
He encouraged Belgrade authorities to proceed with the relocation plan, which was developed together with Roma leaders, and said the families to be moved must be integrated into the socio-economic fabric of the new surroundings.
"The proper implementation of the plan will benefit the families and create conditions for the repair of the Gazela bridge which serves as a major artery into Belgrade and is part of a key transit highway in the region," said Urstad.
The Head of the OSCE Mission said the initiative was part of Serbia's obligation to ensure that all of its citizens have access to adequate housing. He commended Serbia for making housing issues a priority of its Presidency of the Decade for Roma inclusion (July 2008 - June 2009).
The OSCE Mission has been working with the authorities to promote the rights and improve the welfare of Roma in Serbia. It has helped create a Roma National Strategy Secretariat and supports the implementation of Serbia's national action plan for Roma, which focuses on education, employment, health and housing.