Recognising the Roma and their rights: An analysis of exclusion and integration in the education system

Abstract

This article draws from a small-scale qualitative study related to Roma integration in the Hungarian education system, from the perspective of academics and officials from leading civil society organisations. Based on semi-structured interviews and extensive analysis of the literature, the study identified and categorised key obstacles to Roma integration within the education system, along with methods for improving Roma access, retention and achievement. The study ultimately evaluated the importance of early childhood care and education (ECCE) for Roma children and families by analysing select ECCE services for disadvantaged families in Europe. This article will outline the key findings from the study in light of rising anti-gypsyism, the continued deportations of Roma across Europe and the rapidly approaching Millennium Development Goals (2000-2015) and Decade of Roma Inclusion (2005-2015) deadlines.