Prague, Czech Republic – October 18, 2023 – Compensation for numerous Roma women who underwent unlawful sterilizations has faced significant delays due to errors within the Health Ministry, according to a report by Ombudsman Stanislav Krecek released on his website today.

The Ombudsman’s investigation revealed that the Health Ministry failed to process applications for compensation within the legally mandated timeframe, violating both the law and principles of good administration. More than 30 women have filed complaints seeking compensation for the forced sterilizations they endured. The delay in processing these claims has caused anguish for the affected individuals, many of whom are elderly and have carried the physical and emotional burdens of these procedures throughout their lives.

Ombudsman Krecek emphasized the urgency of resolving these compensation claims, noting that some applicants have tragically passed away while awaiting resolution. To expedite the process for elderly and seriously ill claimants, he suggested that the Health Ministry should consider fast-tracking their applications.

Furthermore, the Ombudsman criticized the Health Ministry for its unhelpful communication with the applicants. Many claimants have faced difficulties reaching ministry officials and receiving responses to their inquiries. This lack of communication compounds the distress and uncertainty experienced by the affected women and their families.

The investigation also highlighted a positive development: the Health Ministry has clarified the information provided to applicants about their rights. Notably, it included information about alternative evidence that could be used to support their compensation claims, such as testimony from relatives and diary entries.

The issue of forced sterilizations of mainly Roma women in the Czech Republic dates back to 2004 when the European Roma Rights Center (ERRC) presented its suspicions. In 2006, the government’s committee against torture recommended introducing compensation, and by 2009, the Czech government had issued an official apology for these unlawful procedures.

Under the law, women who underwent sterilization without their free consent and without being informed about the consequences between July 1, 1966, and March 31, 2012, are eligible for compensation of CZK 300,000 from the state. The Health Ministry is expected to process these applications within 60 days and send compensation within 30 days of approval.

The delay in compensating these victims is a troubling continuation of a long-standing issue, and there is an urgent need for the Health Ministry to rectify these delays and ensure that justice is served promptly to the affected Roma women and their families.

Article by Prague Forum