The Roma/Gypsies form a group of approximately 8-10 million people in Europe. They are to be found in almost all Council of Europe member states and indeed, in some central and east European countries, they represent over 5% of the population. Yet, although they have been in Europe since the 14th century, very often they are not recognised by the majority society as a fully-fledged European people and they have suffered throughout their history in …showed first 75 words of 420 total…

…showed last 75 words of 420 total…issues. Indeed, it would appear that only a long-term vision of the solutions to the problem, together with measures aimed at improving the situation in various aspects of daily life, can lead to a lasting improvement in the situation of the Roma/Gypsies. Lastly, one of the fundamental principles guiding the Council of Europe's approach is participation of the communities concerned, through Roma/Gypsy representatives and associations. Without this, no lasting progress will be accomplished.