Finland’s National Roma Policy (ROMPO) 2018–2022

Abstract

The primary objective of Finland’s National Roma Policy for 2018–2022 (ROMPO2) is to support the progress seen in the societal integration of Roma and positive development in Romalinguistic, cultural and social rights. The policy programme is based on the premise that Finland’s current legislation and comprehensive service system provide a good foundation for the promotion of the equality of the Roma population. The mainstreamed actions and measures targeted specifically at the Roma population set out in the National Roma Policy will create further capacities for considerable improvements in the human rights and socioeconomic status of Roma. This must take place by increasing the level of activity, inclusion and access to influence among the Roma population and with respect for and by strengthening the Romani language and Roma culture and identity.

On the basis of follow-up data on Finland’s first National Policy on Roma, the strengthening of the societal integration of Roma calls for increases in the amount, effectiveness and planning of cooperation in Roma issues at the local and regional levels in particular. One way of reaching these objectives and monitoring progress made is to create county-specific Roma programmes (MAARO Programmes) that support the implementation of the Counties Act that is currently being drafted. In addition, the new policy programme seeks to take into account matters relating to information provision and the preservation of Roma cultural heritage. Along with the needs of Finland’s traditional Roma population, the National Roma Policy also covers the needs of foreign and non-sedentary Roma living in Finland temporarily or on a long-term basis