Helsinki Commission Briefing to Examine Attacks on Roma in Ukraine

WASHINGTON—The Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the Helsinki Commission, today announced the following briefing:

ATTACKS ON ROMA IN UKRAINE

Wednesday, July 25, 2018 10:00 a.m. Senate Visitor Center Room SVC 214

Live Webcast: www.facebook.com/HelsinkiCommission

Over the course of 2018, attacks on Roma in Ukraine have escalated dramatically. Several of the mob attacks have been filmed and broadcast in an attempt to intimidate Roma communities. The attacks have destroyed property, injured many, and killed at least one. This briefing will examine the impact on Romani communities, possible patterns in the attacks, and the response of the Ukrainian government. Panelists will also offer policy recommendations for protecting what is arguably Ukraine's most vulnerable minority. Panelists scheduled to participate include:

• Zemfira "Zola" Kondur, Romani human rights activist; Founder, Chiricli International Roma Women's Fund
• Halyna Yurchenko, Coordinator, the NGO "Roma of Ukraine - TERNIPE"
• Oksana Shulyar, Deputy Chief of Mission and Minister Counselor, Embassy of Ukraine to the United States