April 8 marks International Roma Day—a holiday that celebrates not only the culture and traditions of the Roma community, but also respect, equality, and visibility. This day was established at the World Romani Congress in London in 1971, where the Romani national symbols—the flag and anthem—were officially recognized for the first time.
The Romani people are Europe’s largest ethnic minority; their culture is a vibrant tapestry woven from traditions, language, music, and crafts. It is firmly woven into the fabric of European society, making it richer and more diverse.
The Romani community is an integral part of Ukrainian society. It is important to note its contribution to the country’s cultural diversity, the strengthening of interethnic dialogue, and the overall development of civil society.
According to the 2001 All-Ukrainian Population Census, there were 47,587 Roma living in Ukraine. According to data from civil society organizations, by 2023 the size of the community in Ukraine ranged from 200,000 to 400,000 people. The most concentrated Roma communities are found in the Zakarpattia, Odesa, Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv, and Cherkasy regions. At the same time, the Roma community in Ukraine consists of more than 15 Roma ethnic groups, including the Sere, Kotlyari, Lavari, Plashchuny, and Krymy. All of them differ in language, culture, and traditions.
In the Donetsk region, the cities of Bakhmut, Vuhledar, Mariupol, and Toretsk were areas of concentrated Roma settlement, where civil society organizations of the Roma ethnic community existed and were actively engaged.
International Roma Day falls during difficult times for Ukraine. Yet, despite the brutal war, the Roma community stands shoulder to shoulder with the Ukrainian people, fighting for freedom, civilizational values, and humanity—which Russian aggressors are trying to destroy. Ukraine is our shared home, where every people has the right to a peaceful life, the preservation of their culture, and their distinct identity.
Despite numerous challenges, the Roma minorities of Donetsk Oblast have been and remain an integral part of the region. Preserving their unique culture and ensuring equal opportunities is an important step toward social justice and harmonious coexistence in a multicultural society.