Results of the project “Strengthening the capacity of the NGO sector working in the field of the Roma community and the inclusion of Roma women in the work of NGOs”

The project “Strengthening the capacity of the NGO sector working in the field of Roma community and Roma women’s inclusion in the work of NGOs” aimed to increase the capacity of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) aimed at improving equal opportunities for the Roma community, with a particular focus on the empowerment of Roma women. Funded by the European Union, this initiative brought together partner organisations from Slovenia, Hungary, Italy and Bulgaria.
Throughout the project, we sought to strengthen the skills and capacities of both Roma involved in NGOs and non-Roma staff working with the Roma community. In doing so, we aimed to increase the effectiveness of NGOs in addressing the specific needs of Roma women who face unique challenges requiring individual support. Our main goal was to facilitate long-term progress and promote equal participation of Roma women in all aspects of life.
Within the framework of the project we implemented a number of transnational activities that focused on the exchange of best practices between partner organisations. This included the development of methodologies aimed at individual, group and community work within the Roma community. One of the main intellectual outputs was the collection of good practice compiled in a freely accessible online publication. In this publication, successful methodologies were presented and recommendations were given for applying these practices in different geographical contexts.
The selected good practices come from the diverse experiences of the partner organisations and represent innovative approaches to Roma inclusion that can be adapted to different settings. Recognising the importance of transferring these practices, we aimed to improve the work with Roma communities at EU level, especially in the NGO sector.
By sharing effective strategies and insights, we sought to improve cooperation and understanding between NGOs, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive society.

In addition to collecting best practices, the project also focused on local activities designed to directly interact with the Roma community. Participating organisations documented their observations and knowledge, resulting in a series of podcasts that provided insights into the functioning of the Roma community and highlighted the role of education in promoting positive change. Overall, this initiative has successfully strengthened the capacity of the NGO sector and empowered Roma women, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs addressed in a way that promotes their full participation in society. Through joint efforts and shared knowledge, we have sought to create a fairer future for the Roma community across Europe.

You can watch the Bulgarian podcasts here:

All podcasts created by the project partners can be listened to in English here:

The Good Practice Guide “Successful Approaches for Working with the Roma Community”, created within the project and presenting good practices from all partners, can be read in English  HERE