Бедност и етничност в процеса на демократизация: pомите в България
Poverty and ethnicity in the process of democratization: the roma in Bulgaria

Summary/Abstract: The Roma are a heterogeneous ethnic group whose identity is multi-dimensionally diverse. They are traditionally among Europe s poorest and most marginalized minorities. This article is concerned with characteristics and backgrounds of the situation that large segments of Bulgarias Roma population are exposed to. During socialism, in spite of repressive measures aimed at the forced economic integration of the Roma and their complete assimilation, the members of this ethnic group had access to permanent employment, benefited from regular wages, social security and improved opportunities for education. After the collapse of socialism, the institutional framework provided a basis for an ethno-specific organisation and articulation of interests as well as for cultural development and social and political participation. Meanwhile, the transition brought new hardship: far above-average unemployment rates, impoverishment, discrimination, increasing segregation in the spheres of housing and education, and severe health problems. Large segments of Bulgarias Roma population are trapped in a vicious circle of poverty. During the last decade various political and legal documents and national and international programmes have been developed for the improvement of the situation, special state bodies dealing with issues of minorities have been institutionalized. Although some promising approaches exist, the Roma have not yet become the target of a comprehensive state policy with multidimensional problem-solving strategies at the national level. The situation contains enormous socio-economic risks not only for the minority itself but also for the Bulgarian society at large.

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