Understanding Roma Oppression in Europe Through Humantarian Forensic Analysis

Authors

• Christal L. Quinn, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

First Advisor

William R. Belcher

Committee Members

LuAnn Wandsnider, Emira Ibrahimpasic

Date of this Version

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Citation

A thesis presented to the faculty of the Graduate College at the University of Nebraska in partial fulfillment of requirements for the degree of Master of Arts

Major: Anthropology

Under the supervision of Professor William R. Belcher

Lincoln, Nebraska, May 2026

Comments

Copyright 2026, Christal L. Quinn. Used by permission

Abstract

This thesis examines the marginalization of Roma people in Europe, and how humanitarian forensic practices may help Roma communities in their quest for justice and recognition. The study draws exclusively on secondary information to examine the social, political, and legal issues affecting the Roma communities, who have endured centuries of institutional discrimination, marginalization, and violence. This thesis identifies ways in which systematic oppression continues to limit Roma communities’ access to education, housing, healthcare, and legal protection through a review of relevant literature and applicable theoretical frameworks. The study also examines the relevance of forensic science, particularly its humanitarian applications, in addressing human rights abuses. Moving beyond a purely technical perspective, it emphasizes the significance of a victim-oriented approach and community involvement (United Nations, n.d). It argues that incorporating Roma voices may lead to more inclusive and effective forensic and policy processes. The study acknowledges its limitations, notably the absence of primary data and direct engagement with Roma communities and therefore calls for future research to embrace community-based participatory research methods.