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Education of Ethnic Minorities: Introduction and Evaluation of Various Models in Relation to Roma

Tolerance . Seminar 2000 . ECMI Panel . Details EDUCATION OF ETHNIC MINORITIES: INTRODUCTION AND EVALUATION OF VARIOUS MODELS IN RELATION TO ROMA This is NOT an abstract, but a paper (drawing on my recent paper in Fishman (ed.) 1999). Since I would like as much discussion as possible, I present here definitions and evaluations of the various models and relate them to a certain extent to Roma education. I would like conference participants to relate them already in advance to models they know, and to think of the relative merits of each model. This is especially important in relation to the concept of 'segregation' which for many seems to be a ghost and which needs careful analysis. Is it physical or mental? Is it a means or a goal? Is it initial and temporary or permanent?. Likewise, I would like participants to reflect on my claim that it is only the strong models that should be promoted. Using transitional early-exit models (which many of those who are afraid of the segregation ghost, even some (many?) Roma, seem to favour, at least in some countries) seems to be a defensive strategy, with some possible initial instrumental gains but long-term losses which amount to linguistic and cultural genocide according to Article II(e) in the UN Genocide Convention 'forcibly transferring children of the group to another group'. Is this a price the Roma are willing to pay? Do they know about the long-term consequences? More radical solutions are needed - but are they possible in the present situation of increasing racism?

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