McCann, Thomas (2023) The Road Less Travelled Community Work and the Traveller Struggle for Human Rights in Ireland. PhD thesis, National University of Ireland Maynooth.

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Abstract

This study delves into the struggle for human rights within the Traveller community in Ireland, exploring the perspectives of both activists and community workers who have engaged in this cause. The research aims to develop an understanding of anti-Traveller racism from the perspective of activists and community workers, the obstacles hindering human rights, the factors that support progress towards the attainment of human rights, and the pivotal role community work has played in this struggle. Using a qualitative approach, the study highlights the entrenched discrimination and racism experienced by Travellers. Factors which contribute to the poor living conditions, high unemployment, poverty, limited access to essential services., social exclusion, and health disparities within the Traveller community. The study illuminates the intergenerational systemic nature of anti-Traveller racism and its detrimental effects on the Traveller community, regarding self-esteem, mental health, and overall well-being. Simultaneously, it highlights the resilience and strength of the Traveller community in the face of these challenges. Traveller activists and community workers have persistently challenged the racism experienced by Travellers, advocating for human rights, equality and better conditions. This ongoing struggle spanning six decades has been characterized by the resistance of these activist and community workers against the systemic anti-Traveller racism which was institutionalised by the Irish state. Identified as a powerful agent of change, community work brought a framework rooted in a human rights agenda. This framework empowered Travellers to mobilize collectively and challenge the persistent racism and a sedentarist ideology that blamed Travellers for their situation. This research culminates in actionable recommendations drawn from the analysis aimed at significantly enhancing the circumstances of Travellers in Ireland.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Keywords:	Road Less Travelled; Community Work; Traveller Struggle; Human Rights; Ireland;
Academic Unit:	Faculty of Social Sciences > Applied Social Studies
Item ID:	18630
Depositing User:	IR eTheses
Date Deposited:	10 Jun 2024 14:09
URI:
Use Licence:	This item is available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Licence (CC BY-NC-SA). Details of this licence are available here

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