In February 2019, it was reported that the struggling waste management system in Kosovo, especially prevalent in the largest cities, was not only an environmental threat but affected some of the poorest and most vulnerable in Kosovan society - Roma, Ashkali and Egyptian communities (Roma).  Without formal contracts, fair pay or protection against hazardous waste, Roma (including children) work "informally" to survive, helping to seperate materials for Kosovo's lucrative scrap materials sector.