Amnesty International: Slovakia failed to protect the Roma and refugees

Amnesty International Slovakia (AIS) has stated that in the past year Slovakia has failed in human rights protection due to its discrimination against the Roma minority and its approach to migrants. Global research showed that people were tortured or mistreated in more than 122 states, with around 29 states expelling refugees to countries where they may face persecution or other dangers. "Slovakia is failing due to the unsuitable treatment of people fleeing as well as in its investigations in to the use of excessive force by police officers. This was most tangible with the raids in Roma settlements," said Lucia Bernatová from Amnesty International Slovakia. They also criticised the segregation of Roma children and their excessive placement in special schools. This issue is also being examined by the European Commission. Amnesty International Slovakia pointed to the violation of the human rights of refugees. It warned that international human rights protection might eventually break apart if short-term, selfish national interests prevail over the protection of basic human rights and freedoms. "The year 2015 wasn't a good one for rights and freedoms. Governments approach rights contemptuously and are in breach of their international obligations," said head of the Amnesty International Slovakia Office Kamila Gunisová.