By Lara Moraru, Volunteer and Advocate, Master’s Graduate in International Law, with over 15 years of experience in national and international NGOs, specializing in humanitarian aid, women empowerment, palliative care, youth development, child protection, and combating racism.

Introduction

In the heart of Eastern Europe, Moldova is a country rich in culture and history, yet it struggles with deep-rooted issues of racism and discrimination, particularly against the Roma community. Despite efforts to promote equality, Roma people in Moldova continue to face social exclusion, economic hardship, and widespread prejudice. These challenges are not just remnants of the past but are persistent realities that hinder the community’s ability to thrive. This article aims to shed light on the discrimination that Roma individuals endure daily, exploring the historical context, the current state of affairs, and the urgent need for societal change through the Women Peace and Security (WPS) framework. By understanding and addressing these issues, we can work towards a more inclusive Moldova.

What is Women Peace and Security?

The Women Peace and Security (WPS) agenda was established in 2000 when the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325). This groundbreaking resolution was the first to acknowledge the disproportionate and unique effects of armed conflict on women and girls. It emphasized the importance of women’s participation in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and post-conflict recovery. The WPS agenda is built on four pillars: Prevention, Participation, Protection, and Recovery, aiming to ensure that women and girls are not only protected during conflicts but also play a crucial role in maintaining and building peace.

1. Prevention – breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions

The first step in addressing the discrimination faced by the Roma community in Moldova is prevention. This involves dismantling the deep-rooted stereotypes and misconceptions that fuel prejudice and racism. Roma people are often viewed through a lens of bias, perpetuating negative perceptions that hinder their integration into society. These stereotypes are not only harmful but also deeply ingrained, making it crucial to challenge them through education and awareness campaigns.

Public narratives often paint Roma people as outsiders, which worsens their marginalization. To prevent further discrimination, we must work toward changing these perceptions by promoting inclusivity and understanding. This means fostering environments where Roma people are seen as equal members of society, with their own unique cultures and contributions. By addressing these stereotypes head-on, we can create a foundation for lasting peace and security, ensuring that Roma communities are no longer sidelined but are recognized and respected.

Stereotypes about Roma people in Moldova perpetuate harmful misconceptions and fuel social exclusion. These stereotypes are deeply ingrained and can have a profound impact on how Roma individuals are perceived and treated. Addressing these stereotypes is crucial for fostering a more inclusive society.

Examples of stereotypes:

• “Roma people are all beggars or thieves”: One of the most damaging stereotypes is the belief that all Roma individuals are involved in criminal activities or live off begging. This stereotype is not only inaccurate but also contributes to the social stigmatization of Roma communities.
• “Roma people do not integrate into mainstream society”: The belief that Roma people are unwilling to integrate or adapt to mainstream society perpetuates a divide. This stereotype overlooks the various ways in which Roma communities strive to integrate while facing significant challenges, such as discrimination in employment and education.
• “Roma culture is primitive or backward“: There is a prevalent stereotype that Roma culture is outdated or inferior to mainstream Moldovan culture. It fails to appreciate the diversity and vibrancy of Roma traditions and their contributions to cultural diversity.

To effectively break down these stereotypes, it is essential to promote education and awareness; highlight positive stories and role models; encourage intercultural dialogue; support media representation.

By addressing these stereotypes and misconceptions head-on, we can create a more inclusive society where Roma people are recognized for their individuality and contributions, paving the way for greater equality and understanding.

2. Participation – amplifying Roma voices

Participation is key to ensuring that the Roma community has a stake in the decisions that affect their lives. The voices of Roma people, particularly women, are often silenced or ignored, limiting their ability to influence policy and community initiatives. It is essential to involve Roma individuals in decision-making processes at all levels—local, national, and international. This can be achieved through the formation of task forces, advisory boards, and community councils that include Roma representatives.

By amplifying Roma voices, we not only empower individuals but also enrich our collective understanding of the issues at hand. The inclusion of Roma perspectives is vital for creating policies that genuinely address their needs and challenges. Furthermore, fostering Roma participation helps to break down barriers and build trust between communities. It is through active participation that Roma people can advocate for their rights and contribute to the social and political fabric of Moldova.

3. Protection – addressing gender-based violence and early marriages

Protection is a critical component of the Women Peace and Security framework, particularly for Roma women and girls who are disproportionately affected by gender-based violence and sexual abuse. In many Roma communities, early marriages—often before the age of 18—are a common practice. These young women, thrust into adult roles prematurely, are often unprepared to make such life-altering decisions. The lack of access to education and resources further worsens their vulnerability, leaving them with little choice.

Are these young women truly ready to make adult decisions? Can they freely choose their path, or are they heavily influenced by cultural and societal pressures? The reality is that many Roma girls are not equipped with the tools or knowledge to make informed choices, largely due to limited or non-existent access to education and social services. Moreover, shelters and protection services tailored to the unique needs of Roma women are rare, leaving them without the necessary support to escape abusive situations.

Addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach, including improving access to education, providing comprehensive protection services, and challenging the cultural norms that perpetuate early marriages. Ensuring that Roma women and girls have the opportunity to make their own decisions and lead safe, fulfilling lives is essential for their well-being and the broader peace and security of the community.

4. Recovery: supporting displaced Roma communities

The final pillar, recovery, focuses on the reintegration and support of displaced Roma communities within Moldova. Displacement—whether due to economic hardship, discrimination, or other factors—disrupts the social fabric of Roma communities, making it difficult for individuals to access essential services such as education, healthcare, and psychological support. Reintegrating displaced Roma people into their communities requires more than just physical relocation; it demands a holistic approach that addresses their social, educational, and emotional needs.

One significant challenge is ensuring that displaced Roma individuals can access services in languages other than their own, enabling them to better integrate and participate in broader society. Additionally, efforts must be made to provide continuous access to education, healthcare, and social services, which are often limited or inaccessible to Roma people.

Creating an environment where displaced Roma individuals feel welcome and supported is key to their recovery and long-term stability. This includes promoting community engagement, ensuring access to essential services, and fostering a sense of belonging within the wider Moldovan society.

The need for Youth, Peace, and Security initiatives

As we address the challenges faced by Roma communities in Moldova, it is imperative to also focus on the future—particularly the role of youth in peace and security. Developing Youth, Peace, and Security initiatives is essential in tackling global issues from the ground up. By starting with small, actionable steps—such as providing access to information, services, and education for young people—we can lay the groundwork for lasting change.

Empowering Roma youth is not just about addressing their immediate needs but also about equipping them with the tools to be agents of change in their communities. By investing in the next generation, we can build a more inclusive and equitable society, where peace and security are not just ideals but realities for all.