40 years after recognition: New steps against discrimination against Roma

40 years after recognition: New steps against discrimination against Roma

On September 28, 2025, we commemorate a dark chapter in German history: exactly 40 years ago, Germany recognized the systematic persecution and cruel murders of Sinti and Roma by the Nazi regime. Daniel Lede Abal, spokesman for migration and integration for the Green Party, recalls the great injustice that was inflicted on the Roma and Sinti. He emphasizes their special responsibility and explains that it is essential to keep the memory of these crimes alive as a reminder for the future. Roma and Sinti are an integral part of society in Baden-Württemberg, and their culture, language and identity should be preserved, says Lede Abal.

But the challenges are still great. Despite progress, such as the extension of the state treaty with the national minority of Sinti and Roma to 15 years in 2018, hate crime and discrimination are still everyday realities. In response, an action plan against hatred and agitation as well as a state anti-discrimination law were launched in Baden-Württemberg in order to decisively counter racism.

The dark past of Sinti and Roma

The persecution of Sinti and Roma by the National Socialists was brutal and systematic. The “Race Hygiene Institute” was founded at the Reich Health Office in November 1936 to collect data about this minority. Under the direction of Robert Ritter, around 24,000 “race reports” were created, which served as the basis for later deportations to extermination camps. These classifications divided Sinti and Roma into categories such as full, half, quarter or eight-eighth gypsies and contributed to the brutal persecution.

From the mid-1930s onwards, increasingly drastic measures were taken: from forced sterilizations to concentration camps, in which many Gypsies suffered in inhumane conditions and often died. As part of the “Final Solution to the Jewish Question,” Gypsies were also deported to Auschwitz on December 16, 1942. Only a few survived this hell: of around 30,000 deported Gypsies, only 3,000 returned alive.

Aftermath and recognition

After the war, the consequences for the affected families remained serious. Of those who lived, only 4,000 to 5,000 Gypsies received compensation; Many claims were rejected because compensation authorities often did not recognize Sinti and Roma as victims of Nazi persecution. Discrimination continued and the view of this minority remained problematic for a long time. A negative image that had its origins in the discriminatory attitudes of the 19th century prevented society from honestly dealing with the past.

The recognition of the persecution of Sinti and Roma remains an important issue. Germany will continue to have a responsibility not only to come to terms with history, but also to take active action against today's discrimination. These challenges must be addressed in order to protect and promote the dignity and identity of the Sinti and Roma.

The history of Sinti and Roma is not just a past that needs to be remembered. It is a call for responsibility in the present so that history does not repeat itself. The voices of those who lived through these dark chapters must be heard to protect future generations from similar injustices.

For more information read the reports from Green State Parliament BW, DHM and bpb.