The Roma population in Greece faces acute social exclusion that can only be solved through organised long-term inclusion policies covering all the various aspects involved. 

Host Country : Greece

Place and date : 27. - 28.5.2009

Peer countries : Finland - France - Germany - Hungary - Spain

An "Integrated Programme for the Social inclusion of Roma" was introduced in 2001, covering aspects ranging from housing, employment, education, health, welfare and culture to athletics. However, the programme was not as successful as hoped, largely because it did not have a committed budget of its own and it was financed on an ad hoc basis as well as because of the lack of a management authority for its coordination and implementation. 

A study has been commissioned to assess current policies and record the situation of the Roma, with a view to developing a long-term strategy and more appropriate institutional and financial arrangements to implement inclusion policies. 

The intention is also to draw on the experience of other Member States in order to improve the chances of future efforts in this regard being effective. 

The outcome of the Peer Review could help to define a common model for an integrated approach to the social inclusion of Roma in all EU Member States.

Peer Review manager

Ms Renate Haupfleisch (ÖSB Consulting GmbH)