Roma people as citizens, settled centuries ago in Albania, and this branch of people of
Indian origin spread in the whole of Europe and beyond (see U.N. Doc. Ref. No.
E/CN.4sub2/L.670, dt.26/08/1977).  In conformity with legislation, they enjoy autonomy
on issues related with language, culture, spiritual values and lifestyle to such an extent as
their interests do not explicitly and openly contravene that of the State.  Among others,
they enjoy the right to protect, raise and develop their language and culture under their
administration and with the counseling and financial support of the State.  This can be
done through the public and/or private educational system (elementary school, high
school, university, longdistance and preschool studies, with Roma language as the mother
tongue or as the second language) and through publications and other means of
communication.

Following the practice of European Institutions, in the texts of political, social, public or
scientific  nature, whether written or oral, Roma people will be addressed only in their
traditional name as ROMA and not by any other name (as for example: arxhi, kurbat,
gabel, magjup, cigan, endacak, nomad etc.)

With the signing of the European Charter of the Council of Europe on Regional and
Minority languages the Government will notify the Council of Europe that it will apply this
Charter for the Roma language and other non-regional languages which might exist in
Albania.

The determination of the Roma identity is made only and completely with the decision of
the individual.  This should be done in a free manner because it is a decision which
belongs to his/her conscience and will.  Roma identity should never be considered a
negative element.  On the contrary, it should be considered a human value and should be
proudly treated by the individual and with respect from others.  Roma culture, language
and their help during the history of Albania should be recognized as a component part of
the spiritual and material resource of our country.

The improvement of Roma people’s conditions and those of any other part of the
population is a necessary factor in the improvement of the welfare of all citizens and the
country’s social stability in general.

After the  approval of the constitutional law, Roma people will be heard from in the
Parliament on issues related to them.  The hearings will be carried out in conformity with
the procedure set out in the Parliamentary Rules, by a group of representatives among
which:

a) a part will be selected directly from among Roma people;
b) a part will be nominated as agreed among Roma associations and institutions in
the country;

c) the other part will consist of specialists of this field and in cooperation with
Roma institutions and international organizations which deal with the Roma issue
and which Albania has become a member.

The representation of Roma people in respective state institutions will be regulated by
specific dispositions in their regulations.

Submitted by Pëllumb Furtuna & Xheladin Taço
 Roma Association “Rromani Baxt”
Tirana, Albania
Phone: 355 42 683 24
Fax: 355 42 651 97
Source: Mr. Rauno Viemerö, OSCE, 29.09.1995