Roma in the Educational System of Sweden: Achievements after Year 2000 and Challenges for the Future

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the Romani minority in the educational system of Sweden and on achievements after year 2000, and on challenges for the future. A brief historical background frames the discussion, including the processes of getting access to the formal educational system, followed by an overview of the socioeconomic situation of Roma, and further the recognition of Roma as a national minority in 2000 and the Strategy of Roma Inclusion 2012–2032. The second part of the chapter discusses the educational situation from year 2000 until the present, also presenting findings from a study concerning higher education and the first course for Romani mediators working in schools developed at Södertörn University. The conclusion discusses some of the achievements reached during recent years as well as challenges and priorities for the future of the Roma minority in the field of education.</p