Trans-border Solidarity: Romani Movement towards a Stronger Europe

This study examines the role of the trans-border Roma movement and associated institutions in creating a narrative of Roma solidarity in the context of the European project. My goal is twofold: first, to illustrate how a particular case of trans-border solidarity in the context of diversity is formed and maintained; and second, how the narrative of Roma solidarity promotes Europeanness. I analyse the past and current narratives of Roma nation, identity and solidarity with the assumption that these concepts are constructed, through discursive and other means. Trans-border solidarity is key in fighting against discrimination, promoting inclusion, and building positive identity. The case of Roma has clearly brought forward transnational political and ethnic solidarities, as well as claims of transnational forms of democracy.

Furthermore, collective solidarity in the case of Roma is explicitly aimed at inclusion in the European space. Roma are thus an instructive case study to understand how transborder solidarity is formed, maintained and affects the pan-European project.