School Education among the Roma in Russia

DOI: 10.33876/2311-0546/2024-3/206-219

Abstract

The Roma people face numerous challenges, including difficult relations with the authorities and the police, mass evictions from their homes, a lack of basic amenities such as electricity, gas, water, schools and transport in settlements where Roma communities are concentrated, and pervasive negative stereotypes and media coverage of Roma issues. However, the most pressing problem is the low level of education among the majority of Roma. In our opinion, this was facilitated by the lack of their own territory and statehood, their small number (according to official data), as well as the concerns of the Roma themselves whether they will remain Roma after receiving an education. It is frequently asserted that the Roma are themselves to blame, as they isolate themselves from the mainstream society, do not want to live according to the laws of the country, do not work, do not pay taxes, etc. But the situation is in fact more complicated than it seems. In recent years, the problem has begun to gain greater attention and visibility. It becomes evident that the resolution of the educational challenges will inevitably lead to the resolution of the other pressing issues confronting the Roma. The subject matter addressed in this article is of significant importance for the future of the Roma. It is therefore essential to undertake a comprehensive examination of the situation.