“As Roma advocacy coordinator and
member of the research Expert Advisory
Group, it was important for me that not
only fundamental rights, but also cultural
rights be considered. I also advised
specific reference to antigypsyism since
statelessness and antigypsyism are
intertwined. Hopefully, the report will raise
awareness whilst creating more concrete
actions. Bringing our voices together is
crucial and knowing that the starting point
of stateless people is strength, we support
this respectfully and wholeheartedly.”
“The research explores how the ongoing
COVID pandemic has affected stateless
individuals and outlines the shocking reality
of how one of the world’s most vulnerable
populations can be left behind in such
situations. It defines vastly important areas
that are worth further exploring to make sure
everyone is safe and has the right to health.”
“Stateless communities have continually been
overlooked and hidden from the public eye.
With the measures implemented in response
to Covid-19, this marginalised community
has become even more isolated, magnifying
the inequalities they face. The inclusion of
stateless communities in Covid-19 responses is
essential for a successful pandemic recovery,
and this research is critical in informing
needs and rights-based policies to ensure
that stateless people are not left behind.”
Nowras Rahhal
Individual ENS Member & Stateless Activist
Anila Noor
Managing Director, New Women Connectors
Michelle Mila Van Burik Bihari
Individual ENS Member & Roma Activist
Situation assessment of statelessness, health, and COVID-19 in Europe
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