The Roma Holocaust: History, Memory, Collective Trauma

Last week, the Romanian Cultural Institute in London hosted a deeply meaningful and courageous conversation on a chapter of history that has long been overshadowed: the Roma Holocaust during World War II. The event, organised with the support of the Romanian Embassy in the UK, brought together scholars, activists, diplomats, and community members for a moving evening of remembrance, education, and collective responsibility.

The room was filled to capacity, with attendees listening intently and participating in dialogue that honoured victims, survivors, and those still working to ensure this history is not forgotten. Among those present were survivors of the Jewish Holocaust, who stood alongside us in solidarity - a poignant reminder of how different histories of persecution are interconnected.

Historically, the Roma community suffered devastating losses under Nazi rule and its collaborators across Europe. While exact figures are difficult to determine, historians estimate that at least 250,000 Roma were murdered, with some estimates reaching up to 500,000 victims. This genocide was marked by mass deportations, violence, and the destruction of families and communities. In the Romanian context, under the regime of Marshal Ion Antonescu, over 25,000 Roma were deported to Transnistria beginning in 1942, where many perished from hunger, disease, and brutality.

Our distinguished speakers brought profound insight and reflection to the evening:

✨ Professor Marius Turda (director of the Centre for Medical Humanities, Oxford Brookes University) shared historical perspectives on memory, trauma, and the paramount importance of confronting difficult truths.

✨ Sociologist and researcher Adrian-Nicolae Furtună (director of the “Romane Rodimata” Centre for Social Research) highlighted Roma voices and the ongoing need for historical recognition.

✨ Roma people's rights activist Virgil Bițu emphasised collective responsibility in the present.

The discussion was moderated by journalist Petru Clej.

The event opened with remarks by Aura Woodward, director of RCI London, followed by H.E. Laura Popescu, Ambassador of Romania, who stressed the importance of education and remembrance in addressing prejudice today.

The evening also included short addresses by Iulian Paraschiv, President of the National Agency for Roma, and Dincer Geafer, Under-secretary of State at the Department for Interethnic Relations, who outlined measures undertaken by the Romanian state to improve the situation of the Roma minority and to combat discrimination, underlining the importance of sustained public policy and institutional commitment. Our distinguished guests also presented the publication 'The Roma Holocaust. An Album of Memory and Gratitude' (Monitorul Oficial, 2024).

All contributions helped situate the Roma experience within broader conversations about history, memory, and contemporary challenges. Together, we were reminded that understanding and acknowledging the past is essential to shaping a more inclusive and just future.

We extend our sincere thanks to our guest speakers for their insightful contributions, to everyone who joined us, and to Alex Coman for capturing and preserving the spirit of this evening through his photographs.