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

The rally was organized by well-known members of leftist and liberal organizations, 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.(dpa)