Abstract
This research projects investigates the construction of human dignity in the lived experience of poor, Roma women in Oslo, Norway. It seeks to contribute to a more inclusive, less abstract interpretation of human dignity, taking into account the inner perspectives, lived experiences, and knowledge of persons unheard in current debates on human dignity. It shows that, while the theoretical interpretation of human dignity remains abstract, the construction of human dignity in the lived experience is complex, diverse and multifaceted. Poor, Roma women describe a gain or loss of human dignity in terms of personal integrity, autonomy of the person, group culture, basic needs, non-discrimination, and suffering. These components of human dignity, however, are rich, contextual, and interconnected, and cannot be easily separated in the lived experience. The gain or loss of human dignity is related to the women s inner perspectives, experiences, and identity, to their relationships, and to the environment.