The Unheard 12 Million

There are 12 million Roma and Travellers living in Europe, of whom six million are in the EU. Their voices are strong and clear, especially those of women and girls. They are demanding equal access to rights and opportunities, fighting for justice, advocating for their own rights and the rights of others who have been pushed to the margins of society. They empower, build bridges, and provide support where systems have failed. Together, they are trying to shape a future where everyone belongs. Yet, their voices often go unheard, excluded from decision-making tables, not respected or acted upon. In far too many places they face vicious hatred and discrimination. To better support the human rights of Roma and Travellers, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Michael O’Flaherty, spent much of 2024 and 2025 travelling across Europe visiting and meeting with them. This book is the story of those encounters. It describes what he saw and heard. The book is also a wake-up call for everyone across the continent to help build a Europe that embraces everyone. The Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights promotes awareness of and fosters the effective observance of human rights across the organisation's 46 member states. Michael O'Flaherty commenced his six year term in April 2024.