Three quarters of beggars in Brussels are Roma and are less likely to be given money

Research by KU Leuven reveals that people are less likely to give money to Roma beggars in Brussels, compared to other ethnic groups, reports VRT.

The study by the university questioned 360 beggars on their quality of life, state of health, sense of security and daily activities. It also surveyed 310 passers-by about their habits when it came to giving money to beggars.

They were asked to choose between different imagess of people who varied in gender, ethnicity, handicap and accompanied or not by a baby.

The study showed that people were less likely to give money to Roma than to other groups. “On the one hand, this is due to racial prejudice,” said sociologist and researcher Stef Adriaenssens (KU Leuven). "On the other hand, people also feel that Roma beggars don't deserve support."

People were also found to be less inclined to give to Roma than to beggars with a western appearance.

"Remarkably enough, this is a discrimination that does not exist towards black beggars, and may even work in the opposite direction," revealed the study. "Subjects show an equal or even a greater willingness to show solidarity to a black beggar."

Despite a lack of precise figures, it’s estimated that between 400 and 500 people are begging in Brussels, according to Adriaenssens.

"But since it is a very visible phenomenon - beggars by definition go to places where many people gather - their number is often overestimated," said the sociologist.

The number of Roma begging has risen, added Adriaenssens. "Roma in Brussels mainly come from Romania and now make up three-quarters of the total number of beggars in Brussels. 15 years ago, they made up about half of all beggars."

Photo: Belga