The public health situation of minority communities, particularly the Roma, stands as a huge barrier (akin to poverty) to the expansion and strengthening of democratic norms. The Roma of Central and Eastern Europe are in the unique position of suffering the worst health problems of both the industrialized and the developing world. This poor health status is created and exacerbated by rampant discrimination throughout the countries of the region. Yet, efforts to promote the health of Roma populations often fail to confront the effects of this discrimination: segregation in education; near universal unemployment in some communities; inadequate housing and food; poor access to health services, clean water and sanitation; lack of social integration; minimal political participation; and disparities in income distribution. This working group, the next generation of open society leaders concerning Roma and public health, seeks to engage in research addressing one or more of these issues, and hence recommend strategies that would improve the health of Roma communities.

Fellow projects in 2005: