11/06/2026
Union Romani Voice EXPRESSES DEEP CONCERN OVER VIOLENCE IN NORTHERN IRELAND AND STANDS IN SOLIDARITY WITH AFFECTED ROMANIAN AND ROMA FAMILIES
11 June 2026
Union Romani Voice is deeply concerned by the recent violence, disorder, and reported hate-motivated incidents that have taken place in Belfast and other parts of Northern Ireland.
We are alarmed by reports of attacks on homes, intimidation of residents, and incidents targeting migrant and minority ethnic communities. Such acts have no place in a democratic society and must be unequivocally condemned.
Union Romani Voice welcomes the swift response of the Ambasada României în Regatul Unit al Marii Britanii şi Irlandei de Nord , the Consulatul General al României in Edinburgh, and the Honorary Consul of Romania in Northern Ireland, who continue to monitor the situation closely and provide support to Romanian citizens affected by these events.
According to information released by the Romanian authorities, three Romanian families whose homes were vandalised during the violence of 9 June 2026 are currently safe and receiving consular assistance. While no Romanian citizens have been reported injured, the attacks on family homes have created fear, distress, and uncertainty for those affected.
Union Romani Voice is also in direct contact with Roma families in Northern Ireland who have been affected by the recent events. Through our community networks, we continue to monitor developments closely, provide information and support where possible, and ensure that the concerns of affected families are communicated to the relevant authorities and institutions.
Several families have expressed fear for their safety and uncertainty about their future following the attacks. The impact of such incidents extends far beyond physical damage to property; they can leave lasting emotional and psychological consequences, particularly for children and other vulnerable individuals.
As an organisation that has supported Roma and Romanian communities across the United Kingdom for more than a decade, we recognise the devastating impact that hate crime, racism, and community tensions can have on families and neighbourhoods.
We strongly condemn all forms of racism, antigypsyism, xenophobia, hate crime, and violence directed against migrants, Roma communities, ethnic minorities, or any other group. No person should be targeted because of their ethnicity, nationality, language, culture, religion, or migration status.
We are particularly concerned by the rise of hostile narratives and public discourse that can contribute to division, prejudice, and the stigmatisation of entire communities. Collective blame and stereotyping undermine social cohesion and risk creating an environment in which discrimination and violence become normalised.
We call upon all relevant authorities to:
• Ensure the immediate safety and protection of all affected individuals and families;
• Conduct prompt, thorough, and effective investigations into all reported incidents;
• Hold perpetrators accountable for acts of violence, intimidation, vandalism, and hate crime;
• Provide appropriate emergency support, accommodation, welfare assistance, and legal advice to victims;
• Continue engaging with affected communities to prevent further escalation and promote community cohesion;
• Publicly challenge racism, xenophobia, and antigypsyism wherever they occur.
We further encourage any Romanian, Roma, or other individuals affected by these events to report incidents to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and seek assistance from the Romanian consular authorities where required.
Union Romani Voice remains committed to working alongside public authorities, human rights institutions, community organisations, and local leaders to ensure that all communities can live in safety, dignity, and mutual respect.
At a time of increasing social tensions across Europe, it is essential that governments, institutions, and civil society reaffirm their commitment to human rights, equality, democracy, and the rule of law. Violence, racism, and hatred can never be accepted as solutions to social challenges.
Our thoughts are with all those affected by these distressing events. We stand in solidarity with every family impacted by fear, discrimination, and violence, and we remain ready to provide support where needed.
For media enquiries:
Simona Lazar
Chief Executive Officer
Union Romani Voice
Email: [email protected]
About Union Romani Voice
Union Romani Voice is a Roma-led charity based in Suffolk, United Kingdom, providing advocacy, advice, community support, and human rights representation for Roma, Romanian, and other vulnerable communities. The organisation works to promote equality, social inclusion, community cohesion, and access to rights and services across the United Kingdom.
Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights
Police Service of Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland Office
Romi-din Irlanda de Nord
