France and Italy defy condemnations of their anti-Roma actions
France and Italy are defying pressure from human rights groups and the European Parliament over their continued mistreatment of Roma people.
Yesterday the French government said that it will not stop deporting Roma (sometimes called gypsies).
Meanwhile, Italian police have resumed the dismantling of Roma camps near Milan and Rome and transferred some of the inhabitants to temporary housing, with the mayor of the Italian capital pledging to accelerate the demolitions.
The Italian government is also proposing legislation to defend and enshrine its anti-Roma stance, in defiance of the European Parliament.
Reacting to the EP’s call for deportations to be halted, the French Immigration Minister, Eric Besson said he would work to help ‘Roma integration’ within Romania.
Critics say this amounts to forced removals, displacement and abuse.
MORE ARTICLE
SPECIAL: The Situation in France
