September 14, 2022

Eternal Outsiders – Gypsies in Syria

The term “gypsy” has been used throughout history in a pejorative way and is recognized by many members of the community and researchers to be a derogatory term (particularly in Europe) where they are known as the Roma people. Some members of the community in Syria use the Arabic equivalent of the term “غجر Ghajar” however “Dom” the equivalent of “Roma” is also used.

As one of the ethnic groups that are most vulnerable to discrimination and persecution around the world, this community is considered a prominent ambiguous, diverse, and unrecognized group in Syria. They are known for practicing various professions, such as playing musical instruments, fortune telling, singing, and others; who are gypsies?