The Unheard 12 Million has been published by the Council of Europe today and will be accompanied by a photo exhibition set to tour key European cities.

The book tells the compelling stories of Roma and Travellers, particularly women and girls, fighting for their own rights and for those of others pushed to the margins of society.

It draws on Mr O’Flaherty’s travels and personal encounters and seeks to bring home the dire reality of Roma and Traveller experiences through first-hand accounts and direct quotes.

The text is reinforced by narrative photography, including images by an award-winning photojournalist, which convey the complex realities of life for Roma and Travellers.

There are around 10 to 12 million Roma and Travellers across Europe, including an estimated six million in the EU, who the human rights commissioner says are often systemically excluded, unheard, and face vicious hatred and discrimination in far too many places.

While addressing Europe as a whole, the book specifically features experiences from Ireland, Finland, Greece, North Macedonia and Slovakia.

Launching the book today, Mr O’Flaherty said: “We must confront the injustices experienced by Roma and Travellers, the racism and discrimination that we allow to persist on a massive scale.

“This is one of Europe’s greatest human rights scandals.

“This book is not just a collection of stories — it is a mirror reflecting our responsibility to build a world where everyone belongs.

“Their voices are strong and clear, and we must finally listen to them, respect them, and act on their demands for equality and justice. The time for indifference is over.”