Bujanovac –  The only Roma community member in the Bujanovac assembly, Kenan Rašitović, believes that almost nothing has been done regarding the integration of Roma into society, especially in terms of employment.

This community in Bujanovac celebrates April 8, the World Day of Roma, although according to the words of their political representative, who is part of the local ruling coalition, there are not many reasons for celebration.

Mr. Rašitović believes that the Roma in Bujanovac face daily segregation and discrimination, while there is no political will for their integration.

“The issue of employment is a “cancer” of our community. Some progress has been made in the field of education, but in order for the child to be educated, the parent should be employed and have some income, " Mr. Rasitovic says.

Representation in the local parliament and participation of the United Party of Roma in the local self-government almost did not have any impact on the change of the position of this community.

"With only one councilor, our political power is minimal.  We do not have a significant influence on the decisions that are being made, which does not prevent us from daily demanding both from local and republican authorities to do something for us, "he said.

The issues of employment and improving the living and housing conditions of members of the Roma community will be priorities in the coming period.

The World Roma Day (April 8th) is marked in Bujanovac by various activities – a football tournament, a round table on the position and integration of Roma, while the program ends with a concert at the Cultural Center. 

Source: Bujanovac News and Coordination Body