Roma are EU citizens too, Romanian President says

On the 31 January 2014, Romanian President Traian Basescu strongly defended freedom of movement within the EU, saying Roma have the same rights as other EU citizens and should not be misused for populist campaigns.

However, it was reported in February 2014 that an official anti-discrimination agency had fined the president 600 lei ($185; £112) for saying Roma avoid work and make a living by stealing back in 2010.

ESO: Background information: First ever EU legal instrument for Roma inclusion adopted http://www.europeansources.info/record/press-release-first-ever-eu-legal-instrument-for-roma-inclusion-adopted/

BBC News, 10.02.14: Romania's President Basescu fined for Roma comments http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-26125135

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