Destined to Stay – A Case Study of Roma Refugees from Ukraine

Hungler, Sára (2023) Destined to Stay – A Case Study of Roma Refugees from Ukraine. UNIVERSITY OF DETROIT MERCY LAW REVIEW, 100 (477). pp. 477-498. ISSN 1058-4323

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Abstract

This paper presents the outcome of a survey based on interviews with NGOs, local helpers and administrative leaders in Hungary. The results show that even though the general perception of refugees has ameliorated since the 2015 migration crisis, negative attitudes toward Roma and the poor prevail. When resources are scarce, aid workers must create their own definition of deservingness, resulting in seemingly discriminatory practices. The hostile treatment made many Transcarpathian refugees decide to return to their hometowns, depriving them of a new start. First, the paper gives an overview of relevant international, European and Hungarian laws on the Ukraine refugee crisis. Then it argues that while most of the attention is paid to refugees settling across Europe and, to some extent, in the US, resources should also be allocated to those who have no choice but to stay in their war- stricken homes. Moreover, it demonstrates through the interview results that despite the efforts to eliminate ethic-based discrimination, members of the Roma community face disproportionate hardship in accessing resources, further impairing their prospects for social inclusion.

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