The International Roma Union - IRU is deeply disappointed and at the same time reacts most openly regarding the tragic event that took place on Saturday, June 19, 2021 in Teplice - Czech Republic. The IRU is reacting to the fact that there are attempts to minimize this case, and to have a different direction. In regards to that is the statement of the Czech Minister of Interior Mr. Jan Hamaćek who openly supports the police officers who having in mind the indications, may be directly responsible for the death of the young Roma man. What is even more devastating is the fact that they deny any responsibility and say that the cause of death was drug use by the late Roma man. Such passive attitude of the police towards this case is obvious, and that is why the IRU calls upon the Czech Ministry of Interior, the Czech state institutions, as well as the European Institutions to make this case a priority in the investigation and to have a thorough investigation that will be public and transparent. And at the same time, the IRU will make every effort to ensure that these case and the like will not be repeated ever in the future, and to put an end to such proceedings, no matter where they occur.
The International Romani Union – IRU will mobilize its membership and partner organization and monitor the situation, and in any way, will defend the interests of the Roma community in front of every institution. This means to combat any form of brutality against Roma and their discrimination. Regards, Zoran Dimov President of the International Romani Union – IRU
Skopje – N. Macedonia 06.23.2021
