EC formally requests that France comply on Roma rights following deportations to Romania

Following the deportation of Roma people from Lyon, France to Romania last week, the European Commission (EC) has released a statement expressing concerns over France's actions. The EC “considers that France has not yet transposed the Directive on Free Movement into national legislation that makes these rights fully effective and transparent.” In response, the EC has sent a letter to the French authorities formally requesting compliance with EU directives on the movement of European citizens and the prevention of the singling out of any groups for different treatment. France has previously made commitments to guarantee rights and freedom of movement, but, according to the statement, the EC is not convinced by France's “practical application of the political assurances provided.” Human rights groups condemned the actions of the French authorities last week, when reports suggest over 200 Roma people were rounded up and deported to Romania. It's another chapter in France's questionable history on Roma rights in recent years. Former president Nicolas Sarkozy roused international anger when he ordered deportations of Roma populations in France. New president Francois Hollande made assurances that Roma rights would be respected, but the recent deportations suggest a continuation of previous policies. Liam Lever, liam@romania-insider.com