Are Gypsy Roma Traveller communities indigenous and would identification as such better address their public health needs?

Abstract

Introduction: Across Europe large numbers of Gypsy Roma Traveller communities, experience significant health inequities such as higher morbidity, mortality and infant mortality. This health inequity is perpetuated by wider determinants such as lower social status, lower educational attainment and sub-standard accommodation. This is not dissimilar to other indigenous peoples, even though many Gypsy Roma Traveller communities are not identified as indigenous. Methods: This paper presents contemporary literature and research alongside the internationally agreed principles of indigenous peoples; examining similarities between Gypsy Roma Traveller communities and other indigenous peoples. Results: We argue that Gypsy Roma Traveller communities could be recognised as indigenous in terms of the internationally agreed principles of indigeneity as well as shared experiences of health inequity, colonisation and cultural genocide. Doing so would enable a more robust public health strategy and development of public health guidelines that take into account their cultural views and practices. Conclusion: Recognising Gypsy Roma Traveller communities in this way is important, especially concerning public health, as formal recognition of indigeneity provides certain rights and protection that can be used to develop appropriate public health strategies. Included within this are more nuanced approaches to promoting health, which focus on strengths and assets rather than deficit constructs that can perpetuate problematizing of these communities.