This article investigates financial capabilities and the role of conversion factors
in the financial situation of segregated Roma families. We examine how these strategies
are linked to stigmatisation and spatial segregation, pushing forward existing theories
on financial capabilities of segregated Roma people. Building on a long‐term collaborative
process, we conducted semi‐structured interviews with current and former residents
of two urban segregated Roma neighbourhoods in Hungary, complemented with the data
generated during our long‐term observations and recorded in our research diaries.
Our results show that if the aim is to promote the social inclusion of extremely poor,
stigmatised and segregated Roma, it is more appropriate to focus on conversion factors
emphasised by the concept of financial capability, mainly related to segregation,
poverty and stigmatisation, rather than on the individual factors. Exploring these
factors can lead to a meaningful understanding of the situation of the people concerned
and to the formulation and development of policies that can support their financial
inclusion and well‐being.
