Intersecting Pathways: The Complex Understanding of Roma Women Post-Incarceration Trajectories Through Intersectionality.

Abstract

This paper examines the post-release trajectories of Roma women through the lens of intersectionality, focusing on the compounded impacts of gender, ethnicity, socio-economic status, trauma, and health issues. The study highlights the unique challenges faced by Roma women upon their release from prison, emphasizing how these intersecting factors exacerbate their reintegration difficulties. Utilizing an ethnographic approach, the research captures the lived experiences of 15 Roma women in Romania, revealing critical insights into their struggles with motherhood, poverty, health care, stigma, and employment. The findings align with existing literature on the systemic barriers faced by minority women and underscore the need for culturally sensitive and gender-specific support programs. By applying Crenshaw's intersectionality framework, this study provides a nuanced understanding of the multidimensional oppression experienced by Roma women, advocating for more inclusive policies and interventions to improve their reintegration outcomes.