I was deeply shocked to hear that in the evening of 23 June another attack took place on a Roma camp in Ukraine, in which a 24 year old man lost his life. Four other people, including a woman and a ten year old child, received stab wounds.

This horrific attack shows that, in parts of European society, the relationship towards the largest ethnic minority is still characterised by exclusion, intolerance and violence. That is something we cannot accept. Religious, ethnic and cultural minorities must be treated with respect. They should be able to live in safety in Ukraine, as they should anywhere in Europe and the world.

It is crucial that the Ukrainian authorities and courts conduct a complete investigation into this terrible act and prosecute those responsible. Human rights protection, which includes the protection of minorities, is a top priority for us.