Ethnical incomes’ gap in Spain. The case of Roma

Background Discrimination against Roma individuals is a prevalent issue across Europe, presenting significant socio‐economic challenges. Spain, holding the highest concentration of Roma in Western Europe, serves as a focal point for investigating such disparities. Objectives This study aims to explore the wage gap between the Roma and non‐Roma populations in Spain, assessing the extent to which this disparity may be attributed to potential discriminatory practices. The objective is to provide a detailed analysis of wage inequalities to inform more effective anti‐discrimination policies. Methods The analysis utilizes data from the 2018 Survey on Social Integration and Social Needs, employing statistical and econometric techniques. This approach helps in quantifying the wage gap and in examining the factors contributing to the observed disparities between the two groups. Results The findings indicate a substantial wage gap between the Roma and non‐Roma populations. Approximately 43.5 percent of the wage difference remains unexplained by the standard variables included in the econometric model, suggesting that factors beyond educational and professional qualifications might contribute to these inequalities. Conclusion The significant unexplained portion of the wage gap likely points to the existence of ethnic discrimination by employers. This study underscores the urgent need for nuanced, targeted anti‐discrimination interventions specifically designed for the Roma community in Spain. The results advocate for policy adjustments that address these disparities at their core, ensuring equity and social integration.