Novo mesto municipality’s demolition leaves pregnant Roma woman homeless

The Novo mesto municipality in Slovenia carried out the demolition of an illegal structure in the Brezje‑Žabjak Romani settlement after a binding decision by the building inspectorate. The structure was the sole home of a pregnant Roma woman, who was left without shelter and now lives in a tent.

Human‑rights groups Amnesty International Slovenia and the Legal Network for Democracy criticised the municipality for violating constitutional rights, citing the lack of prior notice, alternative housing options, and legal recourse. Municipal officials responded that they were obliged to enforce the inspectorate’s decision and denied any illegal conduct, stating the site was unoccupied before demolition and the investor unknown. Police were present during the demolition, which is also underway in the nearby Ruperč Vrh settlement. The municipality said it will continue to work on improving living conditions in Romani settlements but offered no concrete assistance to the displaced woman.