The Gypsies of Bulgaria

Despite the political changes that have occurred in Bulgaria since Todor Zhivkov's resignation in November 1989, Gypsies continue to be the targets of discrimination, as they have been throughout the country's history. The disparate treatment they receive is reflected in housing, education and the work place. Further, the government restricts Gypsies' political activity by denying them the right to form political parties based on ethnicity. Government officials at both the national and local levels rarely address their problems, and more frequently are critical of their behavior in ways that fuel bigotry and hatred. In spite of these hardships, Gypsies display a remarkable resiliency and remain hopeful that one day their human rights situation will improve.