Ombudsman Pekkarinen calls for dialogue on Romani children’s safety in Finland

Children’s Ombudsman Elina Pekkarinen has made a strong plea for the safety of Romani children in an article published in Helsingin Sanomat on Tuesday. She acknowledges her own hesitance to discuss the topic due to its sensitivity, noting that the ongoing silence has resulted in Romani children’s issues being solely handled by the police. According to Pekkarinen, there has been insufficient discussion regarding children’s positions in situations of violence. She hopes to involve representatives from both the Romani community and the majority population in the conversation.

Pekkarinen emphasizes that the strong familial bonds within Romani communities, while protective, also have a downside: exposing children to violence, including witnessing and discussing violent acts. “They have beautiful customs, one of which is spending a lot of time together. Unfortunately, this also means that children are present during unfortunate events,” she states.

The call for open dialogue comes from within the Romani community itself. Pekkarinen mentions her own fears about reinforcing prejudices or increasing discrimination by bringing these issues to light, as well as concerns about damaging relationships within the community.

Reflecting on her experience from over twenty years ago as a social worker assisting a Romani woman who couldn’t read, Pekkarinen expresses alarm at the rising prevalence of drug use and trafficking among youth, which she believes has not been adequately addressed. She urges the majority population to move beyond stereotypes and seek accurate information about the life circumstances of Romani people. Despite the media focus on challenges, she insists that Romani families are as diverse and vibrant as any other community.