Roma, also known as Romani, are a traditionally itinerant people whose journey began in northern India. Today, they live all over the world - mainly in Europe. Yet, due to their travelling status (often referred to derogatively as 'Gypsies') and lack of personal documentation, Roma continue to face arguably the worst social stigma on the continent.
In Romania, despite being the largest ethnic minority in the country, some of the most abject poverty and human rights issues remain with the Roma people. They are worse off in almost every aspect of life, with an estimated 90 per cent of Roma households facing material deprivation.
And though a national strategy by the EU commands the Romanian government to better integrate its Roma population, progress is slow. Dorcas believes that more needs to be done to give this ancient minority an equal place in society.