Irish Roma: a literature review

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Medical Anthropology

Background:

• The Roma represent Europe's largest ethnic minority, yet data on their health in Ireland is scarce.
• Limited understanding of Roma culture, family structures, and specific health needs exists within the Irish context.
• Accurate population data is challenging due to the absence of 'Roma' as an ethnic category in Irish national censuses until 2021.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of the Roma population in Ireland.
• To identify Roma-specific cultural factors, family structures, and paediatric health issues.
• To examine health equality for the Roma within the broader Irish population.

Main Methods:

• A review of English-language literature on Roma from 2010-2021 was conducted using Web of Science databases.
• Data compilation involved contacting relevant clinicians and organizations focused on Irish Roma child health.
• Utilized existing reports and strategies for population estimates and cultural context.

Main Results:

• The majority of Roma in Ireland are of Romanian origin, with an estimated population of around 5000 in 2009.
• There is a significant lack of understanding regarding Roma culture in Ireland.
• Across Europe, Roma populations face lower life expectancy and higher illness burdens linked to socioeconomic status, discrimination, and healthcare access barriers.

Conclusions:

• Cultural competence is essential for delivering effective healthcare to the Roma population.
• Addressing unmet medical needs of marginalized groups like the Roma is critical.
• Further research and data collection are needed to inform targeted interventions for Roma child health in Ireland.