Between Romanian diplomatic spin and anti-Gypsyism

The Romanian Ambassador in Ireland, Ms Silvia Davidoiu, issued a press release on July 23, 2007 addressing the situation of a group of Romanian Roma in Ireland.

The press release, an official statement of the Romanian Government signed by the most senior Romanian diplomat in Romania, suggests that the Roma (there is no mentioning in the press release about the fact that they are Romanian citizens) are criminals and liars. Furthermore, their purpose in coming to Ireland was to accuse the Romanian Government of discrimination. These accusations imply that the Roma are enemies of Romania rather than citizens, a tactic which perpetuates and legitimises the already rampant anti-Gypsyism in Romania.

In most countries claiming to be democracies and holding membership in the European Union, a similar press release concerning any other ethnic group (for instance Afro-Americans or Jews) would result in the dismissal of the Ambassador and some serious response from major politicians and the European diplomacies. But as with previous incidents in Romania, this one will probably be completely ignored, showing once again that Europe is more united in its anti-Gypsyism than through empty slogans of diversity and pro-tolerance.

For a full article please go to:
http://www.ergonetwork.org/spin.htm