It is important to note that Roma children in Slovakia are systematically denied their rights to education and non-discrimination. As a result, they are overwhelmingly segregated and placed in Roma-only schools and classes, or in special schools and classes for children with “mild mental disabilities.” Shockingly, Slovakia is the EU Member State with the highest share of Roma segregation in education, with 65% of Roma students aged 6-15 attending schools where all or most students are Roma.
Last month, the European Commission referred Slovakia to the European Court of Justice for violating the EU’s rules on racial equality, specifically for failing to adequately address discrimination against Roma children in education. Sloboda highlights that Slovakia must urgently take measures to desegregate its education system and comply with EU law.
It is disappointing to see that the amended act falls short of what is needed to comply with the state’s obligations to protect the rights of Roma children. The provision of some support measures and the legal right to a place in kindergarten are positive measures, but without concrete desegregation measures, these amendments will not adequately tackle discriminatory practices.
It is crucial for Slovakia to take steps towards ending discrimination against the Roma community. It is the state’s responsibility to ensure that every individual has access to equal opportunities, including education. The failure to provide Roma children with equal opportunities, including access to mainstream education, is a violation of their human rights.
It is essential for Slovakia to take the necessary measures to comply with EU law and end discrimination against the Roma community. Failure to do so will not only result in legal consequences but will also continue to perpetuate the ongoing segregation of Roma children in education. This is a matter that requires urgent attention, and Slovakia must act immediately to address this issue.
<< photo by Ladislav Stercell >>