A recent survey conducted by the Center for Public Opinion Research (CVVM) has revealed that 63% of Czechs perceive coexistence with the Roma community negatively, while nearly one-third view it positively. Although negative responses still dominate, this marks the most positive assessment of relations with the Roma since CVVM began surveying public opinion on the matter in 1997. Conversely, the highest level of negative responses was recorded in 2013, when 87% of respondents described the coexistence of the Roma and the majority population as negative, with only 9% expressing a positive view.

The survey results indicate a continuing trend observed over the past few years. Since 2015, negative responses have decreased by 20 percentage points and by 9 points compared to the previous survey conducted in 2019. Analysts suggest that these findings reflect a weakening of the stereotypical views held about the Roma population.

The sociologists conducting the study noted that the reasons for this significant positive shift are difficult to determine from the data alone. They speculate that factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the conflict in Ukraine leading to an influx of Ukrainian migrants, rising energy and commodity prices, and other issues may have diverted public attention away from the Roma community, potentially influencing the results.

Regarding the government’s management of Roma affairs, 40% of participants found it satisfactory, while a similar proportion expressed dissatisfaction. Local government received a more favorable opinion, with 41% perceiving their handling of Roma issues positively, compared to 26% who were dissatisfied.

In terms of employment opportunities, half of the respondents believed that Roma individuals face worse prospects compared to other groups. Approximately 40% of participants felt that Roma people have limited opportunities in public and civic life, while 42% considered their situation comparable to others. Interestingly, a minority of respondents (14%) even believed that Roma people have better opportunities.

Regarding access to housing, 31% of respondents believed that Roma people face worse conditions, but a slightly higher proportion (35%) perceived their housing opportunities to be better than those of the majority population.

The survey results shed light on the current state of perceptions towards the Roma community in the Czech Republic. The increase in positive assessments indicates progress, but it also highlights the need for further efforts to combat stereotypes and improve social integration and equality for the Roma population.

Article by Prague Forum