asked in 2005

1. What is the biggest misunderstanding about Romas?

1. That their divergent culture is inferior. Main components: no work ethics; ignoring private property; lacking capacity to integrate in the majority society; that no change in behaviour can occur; etc.
2. Denial by the majority of its racialist attitude vis a vis the Roma.
3. Not having a historical/dynamic view on the reason for their social exclusion

2. What are the most urgent minority problems in Hungary?

1. In Hungary, the only real minority problem is the social exclusion and discrimination of the Roma.
2. They represent 6 % of the global population; their demographic growth resembles that of the 3rd World. As the majority numbers decline, in 20 years, in 50 % of the primary school classes the Romas will be a majority.
3. Income, schooling (The only important progress during the last five years to notice is their inclusion in the educational system), equal opportunities.

 

3. How does HFSR’s work differ from other NGOs?

1. As a foundation the tool of intervention is loans (money),
2. respect and trust in the local Romas’ NGOs (no collateral for loans),
3. systematic monitoring/dialogue during the project time,
4. promoting empowerment by provoking constant decision making by our partners  - at all moments and levels,
5. accountability training and requirement,
6. contractual relationship – as formal expression of partnership.

4. Why do you deal with this topic, when you personally are not part of it?

Because the exclusion of a part of the Hungarian society, the Roma, is

1. maintaining a tension inside society,
2. ignoring the problem doesn’t eliminate it.
3. If you have much poverty and exclusion this minders the development of the whole society,
4. because equal opportunities are the basis of a democratic development of the Hungarian society.

5. Isn’t your effort superfluous, as no change can occur with these people?

1. The fact that 75 % of the loans have been reimbursed shows that Romas – provided they are treated with respect and trust  - as any other human group, react positively to an adequate approach.
2. Radical changes do not occur rapidly. It is important to deal with the most burning social and discriminatory problem of the country.

6. What effect has the RLA had on your work?

The notoriety the RLA gave to the organisation made it possible to inform the Hungarian public, not only about the work of the HFSR, but to have the Roma Topic treated publicly and broadly and to show concretely that solutions can be found.