Abstract:

The Gypsies, identified as “the largest ethnic minority group in Europe,” have also been known as the most discriminated and marginalized ethnic group, and faced severe difficulties in social, cultural and economic terms in Turkey. This study focuses on Gypsies living in Kocaeli, Turkey, probably the least known group in the literature. The aim of the study is to identify the situations of this disadvantageous group in Kocaeli and to develop policy recommendations regarding their problems. The study also aims to find out basic demographic, educational, social, habitual and economic situations of Gypsies, in order to explore strategies for integration to the urban life in Kocaeli. This study, which is probably the first and most comprehensive research on the specific Gypsy group living in Kocaeli, is based on empirical data collected from a survey applied to a total of 3517 Gypsies living in three districts of Kocaeli between 2 and 19 February, 2011. In this survey, it has been found out that Gypsies in Kocaeli are socio-economically living under extremely hard conditions and facing serious problems in terms of social discrimination, education, working, social security, and housing. The paper will first give basic information regarding Gypsies of Turkey in general and of Kocaeli in particular. Then, findings of the survey will be shared. The study will end with a general evaluation and policy recommendations regarding problems of Gypsies living in Kocaeli.

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