Roma girls in Bosnia and Herzegovina continue to face significant risks of violence, discrimination, and social exclusion, particularly in urban and peri-urban communities in the Sarajevo Canton and Zenica-Doboj Canton. Research conducted by international organizations, local NGOs, and human rights institutions shows that Roma girls are exposed to multiple and overlapping forms of vulnerability, shaped by gender inequality, ethnic discrimination, poverty, and limited access to education and public services.
Violence and discrimination in schools and communities
Reports from civil society organizations working with Roma communities indicate that many Roma girls experience bullying, harassment, and social exclusion in schools. Discriminatory attitudes from peers and, in some cases, insufficient institutional response from school authorities contribute to an environment where violence often remains underreported.
In both Sarajevo and Zenica-Doboj cantons, Roma girls frequently live in communities facing high levels of poverty, overcrowded housing, and limited access to public services, which increases their exposure to different forms of violence. These include psychological pressure, peer violence, early school dropout, and barriers to continuing education.
Experts also highlight that ethnic stereotypes and gender norms reinforce discrimination against Roma girls. In some cases, these pressures contribute to early marriage, limited mobility, and reduced opportunities for participation in social and educational life.
Structural barriers and invisibility of violence
One of the major challenges identified by researchers and human rights organizations is that violence against Roma girls is often insufficiently documented. Many cases remain invisible due to fear of stigma, lack of trust in institutions, and limited mechanisms for reporting violence within marginalized communities.
In addition, Roma families often face administrative barriers related to documentation, access to health services, and social protection systems, which further reduces the likelihood that incidents of violence are reported or addressed through formal channels.
The lack of systematic data on violence against Roma girls makes it difficult for institutions to design effective policies and targeted interventions.
The need for community-based and participatory approaches
Civil society organizations and researchers increasingly emphasize the importance of participatory approaches that involve Roma girls themselves in identifying problems and shaping solutions. Empowerment programmes, mentorship initiatives, and media projects are among the tools used to amplify the voices of Roma girls and address discrimination.
Projects that combine education, community engagement, and media storytelling have shown particular promise in creating safe spaces where Roma girls can speak about their experiences and advocate for their rights.
Towards stronger protection and inclusion
Addressing violence against Roma girls requires coordinated action between schools, social services, law enforcement institutions, and civil society organizations. Experts stress the importance of improving institutional responses, strengthening anti-discrimination policies, and ensuring equal access to education and social services. At the same time, increasing the visibility of Roma girls’ experiences in public discourse is essential for building broader social awareness and challenging stereotypes that contribute to exclusion.
Initiatives that support Roma girls in sharing their stories and participating in public dialogue represent an important step toward greater social inclusion, gender equality, and the protection of human rights in Bosnia and Herzegovina.