Discrimination against Roma in Access to Housing in Ukraine

11 March 2005

According to information provided the ERRC by Kremenchug-based Romani organisation Amaro Deves, Kremenchug train station authorities have refused to provide employee Ms E.M. Kutsenko, a Romani woman, and her family with adequate accommodation, on the basis that "all Gypsies should live in Gypsy caravans and tents. She [Ms Kutsenko] is the only one who capriciously demands a separate apartment with all conveniences." It is common in Ukraine that publicly-owned companies provide accommodation for their employees.

Mr Mishcherjakov, head of Amaro Deves, informed the ERRC that in 1985 Ms Kutsenko, who has two children, registered for basic accommodation provision. Ms Kutsenko currently lives in a one-room wooden barrack lacking basic services provided by her employer. The ERRC is engaging a local lawyer to file a civil complaint on behalf of Ms Kutsenko.

(ERRC)