Postponement of demolition of Roma settlement

Description

Roma citizens filed a complaint with the Ombudsman stating that they had received notification from the authorities that their settlement in Haravgi, Halkida (shed, motor home) would be demolished. The Ombudsman intervened, requesting the authorities to avoid any measure leading to the violent expulsion or compulsory evacuation of the Roma families from their place of residence; it also highlighted that departure from their dwellings requires prior actions by the authorities, such as securing their legal stay to a specific location, which meets at least the basic conditions of dignity, as well as taking care of the practical aspects of such relocation. The Decentralised Administration of Thessaly — Sterea Ellada responded that it would postpone demolition until a proper site for relocation of the Roma has been found, in accordance with the legislation in force.

Also, upon an objection filed by the Roma, the fines imposed were reduced because such housing constructions were estimated as temporary.

The Greek Ombudsman Equal Treatment

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