The recent demolition of Roma houses in Sofia, Bulgaria, has drawn criticism from the Standing Rapporteur on Human Rights for the Council of Europe, Gudrun Mosler-Törnström. The demolition occurred despite an interim order from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) directing Bulgaria to halt the forced evictions. Mosler-Törnström’s statement emphasized the binding nature of ECHR orders and urged Bulgarian authorities to comply with their responsibilities under the European Convention on Human Rights.
The eviction left over 200 individuals without shelter or access to basic necessities, as reported by Eurochild. These actions prompted a demand from the Council of Europe for Bulgaria to provide adequate support to prevent homelessness among the affected Roma community. The Bulgarian government had justified the demolitions by labeling the structures as “dangerous to the health and life of citizens,” which contradicts the ECHR order issued on April 11 that required a cessation of demolitions pending a legal resolution.
Failure by Bulgaria to adhere to ECHR rulings could have severe implications, potentially affecting its EU funding. As articulated in the EU treaties, member states are obligated to uphold the rule of law, and failure to do so might result in financial sanctions or fund freezes from the EU. While Bulgaria has faced scrutiny regarding its treatment of the Roma community, the European Commission has employed financial measures against member states in the past, as highlighted in cases involving the breach of EU principles.
The issue hinges on broader concerns about discrimination against the Roma in Bulgaria. Human rights organizations, including the Bulgarian Helsinki Committee, have condemned the mass demolitions and called for measures to ensure the safety and well-being of those displaced. The entrenched culture of intolerance toward the Roma community remains a critical human rights issue in Bulgaria, necessitating comprehensive intervention and compliance with international legal standards.