According to the conclusions of the analysts in the project, it is evident that anti-Roma sentiment is on the rise on the Internet.
"The trend of normalizing hate speech against Roma continues. Today, such speech is spread not only by members of ultra-right groups, but also by "ordinary" people or political parties," say Selma Muhic Dizdarevic and Jitka Votavova, authors of a study on anti-Gypsyism.
"Fake news, fraud and manipulation are used as instruments to spread hatred. The trend of so-called humorous racism is also on the rise, creating a combination of irony, mockery and humiliation that is particularly attractive to young people," the authors say.
They add that the trend of relativizing or openly denying the historical facts related to the genocide against the Roma during the Second World War continues.
"There are often accusations that there is a special kind of 'Roma crime' or that Roma have an advantage over other residents," the report said, citing fraud related to free medicine or higher social benefits for Roma.
