French Foreign Minister Troubled over Roma Expulsions

The controversial expulsion of Roma immigrants from France shook the ranks of the French government.

French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner, who has a track record as a human rights activist, told French radio he had considered quitting his job over the issue.

[Bernard Kouchner, French Foreign Affairs Minister]:

„I think that first of all it is necessary to implement the law, it does not amuse me and it breaks my heart, I’ve been taking care of this for the past 25 years, but that’s the way it is. But the difference is that 25 years ago Romania and Bulgaria weren’t part of the European Union, even the Berlin Wall was still standing. But now that Europe is here, everyone is responsible for the integration of their populations.“

Romas, from Bulgaria or Romania, often live in the 300 travellers‘ camps that President Sarkozy ordered to be dismantled.

The French government has offered them 300 euros and a plane ticket home, but as EU citizens they can return any time.

Prime Minister Francios Fillion:

[Francois Fillon, French Prime Minister]:

„We have a problem linked to the opening of the European borders, linked to the principle of freedom of movement in Europe and linked also to the fact that the integration of the Roma population in Romania is not sufficient.“

Many of the Roma say they face discrimination in Romania and stay in France to give their children better futures.

So far this year more than 8,300 Romanian and Bulgarian immigrants have been flown back to their countries, mostly on a voluntary basis.

Kouchner says he’s decided to remain in office and push for a better solution for the Roma.

Foto: NTDTV