Government Finds 15 Million Euros to Continue Roma Community Patrols

Slovakia's government commissioner for Roma communities has secured 15 million euros to continue local civilian patrol programs that were facing termination. The patrol initiative has significantly reduced the need for police interventions and improved order in Roma settlements across the country. The commissioner's office, which oversees government policy toward Slovakia's Roma minority population, determined that the civilian patrols have proven effective enough to warrant continued funding. Roma communities in Slovakia, which make up roughly 8-10% of the population, often live in segregated settlements with limited access to public services and face ongoing social and economic challenges.