From correspondents in Europe, 01:02 AM IST

About 3,000 people rallied in Budapest Saturday to voice their concern about the spread of racism in their country, reported the MTI news agency.

The rally was organised by well-known members of leftist and liberal organisations, as well as by groups representing Roma interests.

'Those in power are not protecting us and are leaving us defenceless to our fate,' said Aladar Horvath, a Roma activist.

Attacks by right-wing groups on Roma communities have seen an uptick in recent months. At least five Roma have been killed in the attacks.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)