Video: In the seminar Desegregation of Education in the Czech Republic: The Role of the Ombudsman in Addressing Human Rights Issues, Jakub Konečný and Marek Kosík, discussed the persistent issue of educational segregation in the Czech Republic, focusing on how the Office of the Public Defender of Rights (Ombudsman) has intervened. Konečný and Kosík addressed the placement of Romani children in special schools and institutions, as well as the challenges faced by mainstream primary schools with a high proportion of Romani students. These issues, he argued, are deeply connected to broader patterns of social exclusion and housing segregation.
The speakers discussed the historical development of educational segregation from the 1990s to the present, its consequences for Romani communities, and potential solutions. They highlighted examples of good practices, emphasizing that meaningful desegregation efforts require addressing systemic inequalities and fostering inclusive education policies. Despite various reforms, Konečný and Kosík contended that achieving equitable education for all children in the Czech Republic remains an ongoing challenge.
Additionally, the seminar featured a moderated panel with Dr. Lucie Ducarre, Associate Professor Kari Hagatun, and Professor Jan Skrobanek, who provided additional perspectives on Roma children’s educational experiences, legal frameworks for children’s rights, and the broader sociological implications of ethnic discrimination.
About the speakers
Jakub Konečný is the Head of the Research Section at the Office of the Public Defender of Rights in the Czech Republic. His work focuses on human rights and systemic discrimination, particularly in education.
Marek Kosík is an International Relations Officer at the Office of the Public Defender of Rights in the Czech Republic.
Dr. Lucie Ducarre recently defended her PhD thesis titled The Right to Education of Autistic Children in International and European Law at the Faculty of Law (UiB). She holds a master’s degree in law specializing in children’s rights and has professional experience as a legal consultant and writer.
Kari Hagatun is an Associate Professor at the Department of Education (UiB) with a PhD from the University of Bergen. Her research focuses on Roma children’s educational experiences in Norway, supported by her background in pedagogy and teaching.
Professor Jan Skrobanek, from the Department of Sociology (UiB), specializes in topics such as ethnic identity, discrimination, and the societal transitions of vulnerable youth within a global context.
You can also access the PowerPoint presentation from this seminar, on this link.