We strongly condemn the openly racist statements made by two Members of the European Parliament during yesterday’s plenary debate in Strasbourg on Roma inclusion, equality, and fundamental rights.
One MEP shamefully declared that “these people are living at the cost of other citizens… let’s stop subsidising criminals… they are Gypsies and they live as Gypsies.” Another claimed that EU funds for minorities are “money that we throw in the bin for subsidising Muslims and Gypsies.”
We also condemn the remarks of a Slovak MEP who dismissed systemic discrimination against minorities and framed support programmes as a threat to “European nations,” contributing to a broader narrative that fuels exclusion, racism, and division.
There is no place for antigypsyism – or any form of racism – within the European Parliament.
At the same time, we would like to thank MEPs Marie Toussaint, Estrella Galán, and João Oliveira for speaking out during the debate and challenging these unacceptable and racist narratives.
We also extend our appreciation to Tomáš Zdechovský, Krzysztof Śmiszek, Hristo Petrov, Commissioner Hadja Lahbib, and Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna, representing the EU Presidency, for their continued support of Roma equality, including their recognition of Roma Week and the essential role of civil society.
Their interventions demonstrate that there are voices within the European Parliament committed to upholding fundamental rights, equality, and human dignity.
