CAUSE OF ACTION: Families divided: Romani and Egyptian Children in Albanian Institutions
CAUSE OF ACTION: Families divided: Romani and Egyptian Children in Albanian Institutions

Author(s): Author Not Specified
Subject(s): Preschool education, School education, Ethnic Minorities Studies
Published by: European Roma Rights Center
Keywords: Public Care; Romani Children; children in institutions;
Summary/Abstract: There’s a high percentage of Romani and Egyptian children in children’s homes in Albania – a disproportionate number. These children are often put into institutions because of poverty, and then find it impossible ever to return to their families. Because of centuries of discrimination Roma and Egyptians in Albania are less likely to live in adequate housing, less likely to be employed and more likely to feel the effects of extreme poverty. As a result, authorities may take children into care - some parents even ask for this, as they can’t support their family. But under human rights law, poverty shouldn’t be a reason to deny children their right to family life. States must step in to support families to stay together. We’ve researched the situation, and on 6 July 2016 we made our case to the Commissioner for Protection from Discrimination in Albania claiming indirect discrimination against Roma and Egyptian children being taken into State care because of their economic situation and ethnicity. The case (and this report) focuses on one institution, the School Children’s Home in Shkodra, but it reflects the wider situation across the country.

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