Anti-discrimination work

Federal press conference of the Central Council of German Sinti and Roma to formulate criticism of the racist elements in the media coverage of the so-called “case Maria”, 05.11.2013, Berlin: © Central Council of German Sinti and Roma

National and international legal instruments provide comprehensive protection against discrimination. Despite this, racism and discrimination on the grounds of sex, religion or ideology, disability, age, and sexual identity are not merely a peripheral matter, but an everyday experience of people living in Germany and Europe. Furthermore, discrimination is not just an individual problem – society as a whole is marked by structural discrimination. Discriminatory structures, mechanisms, and rules, as well as acts of discrimination are present in all areas of life, e.g. work, education, and housing. Therefore, anti-discrimination work is essential for drawing the attention of the public and politicians to these shortcomings and in calling for intervention. According to numerous studies – including the latest ‘Mitte-Studie’ of the Leipzig University – Sinti and Roma are particularly affected by discrimination. The Central Council of German Sinti and Roma views this area of work as one of its main priorities and advocates the fullest possible implementation of the protection against discrimination in various areas.

Priorities and demands

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