Feasibility of applying the Indian Dalit (underprivileged) empowerment and poverty alleviation models to the roma situation in Central and Eastern Europe

Abstract

Given the historical and cultural links, linguistic and genetic affiliations, proven as well as otherwise, the aim of this paper is to explore socio-economic similarities between the marginalized classes (Gypsies or nomadic tribes in the case of India) and Roma in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). In doing so, the paper will focus on transferability of the ‘affirmative action’ model of India to address poverty, disempowerment and lack of integration of the Roma in CEE societies and lay down postulates for possible application for policy makers to work towards development and socio-economic integration of Roma communities. In this context, the EU- Roma framework and the national Roma integration strategies needs to be critically assessed to analyze fault lines in the governing model and prescribe a way forward. Consequent upon an acute form of marginalization of the Roma in CEE countries and their political vilifications, and with a significant lack of political representation, Roma communities are floundering for leadership and direction towards self-empowerment and better governance. The Indian model, with its well laid-out support mechanisms, could well be an option to look at seriously. This could lay a positive link between the precursors of Roma in India, the Dalits, and Roma in CEE countries.