Romani

The Romani, or Roma, are an ethnic group with origins in the Indian subcontinent who have lived across Europe and other regions for centuries. The terms Romani and Roma are used by communities and scholars; the term Gypsy is common in many languages but is considered pejorative by many because of stereotypes and the history of persecution.

Origins and language: Genetic and linguistic research places the ancestors of Romani in northwestern India, with migrations into the Middle East, Europe, and beyond beginning around the second millennium. The Romani language belongs to the Indo-Aryan branch of the Indo-European family and comprises numerous dialects; many Roma also speak the dominant language of their country.

Population and distribution: Population estimates are uncertain, but most scholars place the number of people who identify as Romani at around 10 to 12 million worldwide, concentrated in Europe. Largest populations are in Romania, Spain, Bulgaria, and Hungary, with substantial communities in France, Greece, Italy, and the United Kingdom, as well as diaspora communities in the Americas.

Culture and society: Romani communities are diverse, with different languages, religions, and customs. Shared traditions often center on family networks, oral storytelling, music and dance, and crafts. Social organization varies by group, and historical nomadism has given way in most places to settled life. Religious affiliations include Christianity, Islam, and others, reflecting regional histories.

Rights and challenges: Throughout history, Romani people have faced discrimination, segregation in housing and education, and poverty in many countries. The Porajmos refers to the genocide of Roma during World War II by the Nazi regime. In modern times, governments and international organizations work on inclusion strategies, anti-discrimination laws, and data collection to monitor progress, though gaps remain in health, education, and employment.