The Czech Government Council for Roma Minority Affairs has taken a significant step in the fight against discrimination by adopting a working definition of antigypsyism. This decision, made public yesterday, aims to address anti-Roma prejudice prevalent in the country and instructs the government commissioner, Lucie Fukova, to present it for government approval.

Antigypsyism, defined as a form of racism against Roma, was first outlined by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) in 2020. While not legally binding, the Council believes that adopting this definition can serve as a powerful tool to raise awareness and combat anti-Roma sentiment in Czech society.

The definition encompasses discriminatory actions, expressions, or attitudes towards Roma individuals or institutions, ultimately leading to their exclusion and the erosion of Roma culture. It also highlights the physical violence and hatred directed towards individuals perceived as “Gypsies,” perpetuated by offensive stereotypes and distorted racist ideologies.

Manifestations of antigypsyism range from denying or endorsing historical persecutions to spreading stereotypes about criminal behavior or using derogatory terms like “Gypsy.” By approving this definition, the Czech Republic would join other nations such as Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and the UK, as well as various institutions, in acknowledging and addressing this form of racism.

The Council emphasizes that adopting the definition is not merely symbolic but a necessary step towards promoting equality and understanding. It will facilitate targeted measures to counter discrimination, aid in monitoring and reporting incidents, and contribute to the broader goal of creating a more inclusive society.

Furthermore, the Council’s decision aligns with previous efforts to address historical injustices, such as the improvement of the Roma Holocaust memorials at Lety u Pisku and Hodonin u Kunstatu. It underscores the government’s commitment to honoring the memory of Roma victims and confronting the legacy of discrimination.

Article by Prague Forum