D. Principal subjects of concern 12. The Committee expresses concern at the finding of a research project conducted by the National Council for Crime Prevention that crimes with racial motives have increased since 1980. The social position of Roma, particularly in such areas as education and employment, has been found to be less favourable than that of the rest of the population. As a result, many of them depend on social welfare benefits. Concern is expressed that existing legislation does not fully implement article 4 of the Convention.
Concern is expressed about the low and declining participation by non-nationals in local elections.
Concern is also expressed at the activities based on ideas or theories of racial superiority of various organizations and individuals in the State party, and at the increasing dissemination of recorded music, with lyrics promoting hatred against ethnic minorities. E. Suggestions and recommendations 17. The Committee recommends that the State party provide in its next periodic report information on the number of complaints, judicial decisions and compensation awards concerning acts of racism in all their forms. It is the view of the Committee that further measures should be taken in order to ensure the use by Sami of their own language. The Committee recommends that the policy of promoting equal opportunity in economic and social life for immigrants, refugees and ethnic minorities be reinforced by appropriate legislative, administrative and other measures.