(19/02/2016)
Written question on forced evictions of Roma
Question for written answer
to the Commission
Bulgaria, Italy, Hungary and France have recently intensified forced evictions of Roma, which has left thousands of families homeless. The evictions have been systematic and have targeted Roma homes disproportionately. This is in violation of the EU Racial Equality Directive and severely undermines the commitment of the four countries to the EU framework for National Roma Integration Strategies and the Council Recommendation on effective Roma integration measures.
Does the Commission intend to investigate harassment and discrimination in the area of housing, resulting from forced evictions of Roma, with regards to the Racial Equality Directive – and does it plan to launch infringement proceedings against Member States who continue to violate the Directive?
Can the Commission ensure that EU funds from ERDF and ESF, especially those for Roma inclusion, are not channeled to Member States using these funds for the planning and execution of evictions, including via mainstream policies such as territorial development plans and social housing policies?
How can ERDF and ESF be used to stop and prevent evictions whilst also ensuring access to adequate social housing and legalisation of settlements?