Welcome to our Project Coordinator

Welcome to our new team member

The ERGO Network secretariat is growing! We welcome Marko Pecak, a new team member who joined as the Project Coordinator for Jekhipe.

Within the ERGO Secretariat, Marko has the following responsibilities:

  • Coordination of the Jekhipe project
  • Work on anti-discrimination and antigypsyism files
  • Coordination of transitional justice initiatives

Read more about Marko in his own words:

“My family’s determination and persistence as Romani refugees in the United States is the heart of my motivation for a policy and research career centred on Roma inclusion and anti-racism.

With nearly a decade of experience in research, policy analysis, advocacy, and project management focused on Roma inclusion, combating antigypsyism, and general anti-racism, I am pleased to join the ERGO network as the Project Coordinator for the Jekhipe Project.

I managed and conducted a series of projects on the representation of Roma in European textbooks and Romani Holocaust education. As the Research Officer at Roma Education Fund, I collaborated with the Council of Europe and the Georg Eckert Institute. I led a team of eight researchers to analyze over 850 textbooks.

The efforts highlighted the prevailing representation and discourses surrounding Roma culture, identity, and history within the educational system. Through an independent research study, I explored the representation of the Romani Holocaust in European textbooks with two colleagues. Through critical discourse analysis, we unearth that textbook representations mirror broader societal discourses and may reinforce Roma exclusion.

As an independent research, policy, and evaluation consultant for the last two years, I worked with clients on various projects on inclusion and anti-racism. One of those projects was for ERGO, where I evaluated the state of grassroots-focused funding approaches for Roma inclusion. Additionally, I have spent this time conducting project evaluations for Lumos Transforms, a prominent Los Angeles-based social enterprise committed to promoting anti-discrimination through a trauma-informed and resilience-oriented approach.

I am excited to leverage my policy analysis experience in the Jekhipe project’s goal of promoting transitional justice and supporting ERGO’s efforts in combating antigypsyism. I am committed to building collaborative partnerships, driving impactful initiatives, and influencing positive change.

Outside work, I enjoy walking and hiking with my dog Malna, riding motorcycles, relaxing at coffee shops, camping, and all the other basic outdoor stuff.”

On International Women’s Day

On International Women’s Day (8th of March), Roma women stand alongside women worldwide. While the day is often marked by celebration, we come together not just for celebrations but to raise our voices and demand change.

The Roma women, especially the young women of our communities, are powerful agents for Change. We fight for education, economic opportunities, and a voice to be heard within our families, communities, and society. We challenge traditional gender roles and advocate for equality. We face the double burden of discrimination: one based on ethnicity from society and another based on gender within our communities.

Yet, we stand in solidarity with all women on this day and every day. Let us share our achievements, amplify each other’s voices, and break down the barriers that hold us back. Together, we can create a world where all women, regardless of ethnicity, colour, religion, or sexual orientation, can succeed in a just and equal society.

(by Siljana Hyseni)

New European Solidarity Corps volunteer in ERGO Network

Welcome Siljana!

The ERGO Network Secretariat team is growing! This winter a new European Solidarity Corps volunteer Siljana Hyseni from Albania joined us in Brussels.

She will stay with us until the end of April to learn more about how we work and support all our work areas.

Here is more about Siljana in her own words:

I am a Roma woman from Albania with a strong interest in working for civil society. From a young age, as a volunteer, I joined different Roma-led NGOs, which significantly impacted my academic endeavours and equipped me with a unique perspective on human rights, social justice, and the fight against antigypsyism.

Completing a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Political Science from New York University in Tirana has equipped me with a thorough understanding of global challenges, the importance of intercultural communication, and the necessity of social justice. Throughout my academic journey, I have explored in depth the role of international organisations in conflict resolution and the rights of marginalised communities.

My passion for social justice led me to focus on the impact of armed conflicts on Roma refugees, a group often overlooked and marginalised in times of war. I am particularly interested in shedding light on their experiences and advocating for their rights as they face unjust treatment and discrimination in their search for safety and refuge.

I firmly believe that change starts at the grassroots level, and I am committed to being a voice for those whose voices are often silenced. My goal is to continue advocating for the rights and dignity of the Roma minority, working towards a society where everyone, regardless of their background, has equal opportunities and access to justice.

I am excited to continue this journey of advocacy and empowerment, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the work of ERGO Network. Being at ERGO Network, I have the chance to engage and gain a European perspective on the challenges faced by the Roma minority.

Romani Week 2024 Announcement

Romani Week 2024: Shaping the Future for Roma, Sinti, and Travellers in Europe

As Europe grapples with a complex socio-political landscape characterised by both anti-racism movements and the resurgence of far-right ideologies, the need for inclusive discussions about marginalized communities becomes increasingly vital. In this context, the Roma, Sinti, and Travellers face numerous challenges related to equality, inclusion, and participation. The rise of xenophobic and nationalist sentiments at both national and EU levels poses a threat to their well-being and integration into society.

The Challenge

Despite efforts on paper, the struggle for effective inclusion of Roma, Sinti, and Travellers persists due to a disconnect between policies on Roma inclusion and mainstream initiatives. The political will to combat antigypsyism and social exclusion often falls short, with National Roma Strategic Frameworks remaining under implementation. As the political climate in Europe evolves, the urgency to address these challenges becomes even more apparent.

What is Romani Week?

Romani Week, an annual event held in Brussels serves as a platform to raise awareness about the realities faced by Roma, Sinti, and Travellers in Europe. It brings together civil society organizations, European institutions, and international entities during the Roma International Day. This year, the event is more pertinent than ever, coinciding with the upcoming European elections.

Objectives of Romani Week 2024

Romani Week 2024 aims to dissect the position of the Roma agenda within the broader European political discourse and priorities. The focus is to foster dialogue about the pressing issues affecting the Roma, Sinti, and Travellers communities and ensure their prominence in mainstream political discussions and EU policy priorities.

The primary objectives include:

  1. Platform for Discourse: Provide a platform for representatives and stakeholders of Roma, Sinti, and Travellers to engage in conversations about the contemporary political, economic, and human rights landscape in Europe.
  2. Political Accountability: Encourage stronger accountability and political will from governments, both within the EU and Enlargement countries, to deliver on the promises of equality, inclusion, and participation for Roma, Sinti, and Travellers.
  3. Concrete Topics: Address specific issues such as increased antigypsyism, structural discrimination, the implementation and monitoring of National Roma Strategic Frameworks, and discussions about Roma history, truth, and reconciliation processes.

Overview of the events

Please note that you have to register for each event separately using the special form. If you would like to see the draft agenda, check the regularly updated website of the Romani Week 2024 here.

Future of Roma, Sinti and Travellers in Europe

The event will discuss the ongoing political, economic and human rights changes Europe faces today and ways to ensure that Roma, Sinti and Travellers become a more prominent priority within the mainstream political discourse and policy priorities at the EU level to ensure a stronger accountability and political will by governments, both in the EU and Enlargement countries, to deliver on the equality, inclusion and participation of Roma, Sinti and Travellers.

The event will also discuss the future of Roma, Sinti and Travellers after the European elections, the change in EU leadership and the possible increase of far rights groups in the EU’s political spectrum.

Registration HERE

Most Roma Friendy Mayor Award

The ceremony will award positive examples of Roma integration by local authorities In the Western Balkans and Turkey.

Registration HERE

80 Years of the Roma Holocaust. Lessons to prevent future acts of genocide

More information on this event is coming soon

Registration HERE

Transitional justice to tackle antigypsyism, reclaim our past and rebuild our future

The Jekhipe project launch event focuses on establishing transitional justice processes, including expert commissions, at the EU and national levels to address antigypsyism. The project aims to provide policy recommendations, raise awareness about institutional antigypsyism, promote Roma identity and culture in education, and empower Roma communities and NGOs in the fight against antigypsyism.

Registration HERE

The Roma Civil Monitoring: the role of CSOs in the future of Roma equality, inclusion and participation

The event will discuss the effective participation of Roma civil society in national policy-making.

Registration HERE

Intersectional Perspectives of Romani Children’s Rights

The event addresses the pervasive systemic discrimination faced by Roma children from early childhood, spanning issues like inadequate healthcare, limited access to education, and discrimination in sports. It aims to discuss employing an effective intersectoral approach to challenge and change these practices. 

Registration HERE

Romani Week 2024 promises to be a crucible of ideas and actions, fostering a united front against discrimination and exclusion. By bringing together key stakeholders and decision-makers, the event strives to propel the Roma, Sinti, and Travellers into the forefront of political discourse and policy priorities. As we face the European elections, Romani Week 2024 marks a crucial milestone in pursuing a more inclusive and equitable future for all. Join us in this dialogue to shape a better tomorrow for the Roma, Sinti, and Travellers in Europe.

Ukrainian Roma Refugee Odyssey in Central and Eastern Europe

Challenges and Urgent Needs: Ukrainian Roma Refugee Odyssey in Central and Eastern Europe

Today marks two years since the beginning of the war in Ukraine on 24 February. Since the very beginning, ERGO Network has been supporting Ukrainian Roma both in Ukraine and abroad as they sought refuge in other countries in Europe. The war triggered a migration crisis of a proportion Europe was not prepared for: among the 5 million Ukrainian refugees, approximately 100,000 Roma individuals. From that very first day, through our work with our member organisation, Roma Women Fund Chiricli, we have followed the journeys of many Ukrainian Roma, setting up emergency funds and providing money for food, medicine or petrol to individuals and families.

In the true spirit of ERGO Network, our work on Ukraine started from the very grassroots and scaled up in those two difficult years into a fully-fledged line of work, with the support of EPIM and other smaller grants. Today, on this sad anniversary, we would like to share with you one of the results of this work: the Monitoring Report of the Situation of Ukrainian Roma Refugees in Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Romania, Moldova and Slovakia. Our member organisations and associates brought it together, painting the big picture with the brushstrokes of individual interviews and research analysis.

The focus of this crisis goes beyond sheer numbers. In Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Romania, Moldova, and Slovakia, Roma refugees from Ukraine face enduring discrimination rooted in cultural-historical issues, presenting challenges not commonly encountered by other refugees. Discrimination takes various forms, hindering access to crucial resources like housing, employment, information, and support services.

Despite the implementation of Temporary Protection (TP) and subsequent enhancements, the vulnerabilities of the Roma community within refugee populations persist. Cultural differences, discrimination, and limited education continue to shape their journey, resulting in subpar conditions and ongoing challenges.

The report, drawing from diverse data sources and covering the period until June 2023, provides a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by Roma refugees in these countries. It underscores the imperative for sustained attention and targeted interventions to address the unique challenges confronted by the Roma refugee community.

Major Findings: A Closer Look

The Roma refugee crisis unfolded in two distinct periods, with concrete measures taken by individual countries crucial for understanding and addressing challenges specific to the Roma community. Across Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Romania, Moldova, and Slovakia, multifaceted challenges rooted in cultural-historical issues permeate crucial aspects like housing, employment, and support services.

In Poland, the collective approach of Roma refugees seeking security exacerbates challenges for activists facing substantial personal, financial, and societal pressures due to antigypsyism. Hungary grapples with historical racial marginalisation, necessitating a comprehensive strategy to address prolonged shelter stays and align with EU guidelines.

The Czech Republic views Roma refugees mainly as transient, demanding urgent attention for their long-term integration. Despite a robust legal framework, Romania confronts housing, education, employment, and healthcare challenges. Moldova contends with persistent disparities, emphasising the need for concerted efforts to bridge gaps in access to services, combat discrimination, and enhance advocacy initiatives.

The Slovak Republic, while actively assisting Ukrainian refugees, highlights instances of bias and challenges faced by Roma families. Slovakia’s legal framework and support measures reveal areas where targeted interventions are crucial to address discrimination and ensure equitable treatment for all refugees, including the Roma community.

Persisting Challenges Despite Efforts

While certain aspects, such as advancements in legal frameworks and increased awareness, offer positive aspects, socioeconomic problems, discrimination, and barriers to employment persist. ERGO Network Coordinator for Ukraine Dejan Markovic criticised the ‘colour-blind’ approach of service providers exacerbates the situation, overlooking institutional antigypsyism and challenges faced by the Roma refugee community:

“Ukrainian Roma refugees, forced to flee conflict and persecution, face not only the challenges of displacement but also the risks of discrimination and marginalisation in their quest for safety and stability.”

Increased awareness regarding the discrimination faced by Roma refugees has prompted advocacy and awareness campaigns, fostering improved understanding and collaboration among stakeholders. Yet, the prolonged armed conflict has intensified challenges within Roma communities, affecting socioeconomic indicators and hindering access to essential services.

Persistent barriers to employment, particularly for Roma women, highlight ongoing challenges. Limited educational access and language barriers remain formidable obstacles, indicating the need for targeted interventions.

Discrimination against Roma refugees, particularly in Central and Eastern European countries, remains pronounced. The report emphasises the imperative for targeted interventions, ongoing monitoring, and adaptive strategies to address the distinct challenges faced by the Roma refugee community.

Recommendations for International organisations

Recommendations put forth in the report include implementing comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, streamlining asylum processes, providing free legal counselling, launching public awareness campaigns, ensuring equitable healthcare access, offering language and integration classes, developing job placement and vocational training programs, supporting NGOs, fostering collaboration, and establishing data collection and monitoring mechanisms.

The report recommends sustaining and evolving collaborative efforts for international organisations, emphasising the importance of ongoing engagement with the Roma Coordination Group and incorporating contributions from thematic meetings conducted by UN WOMEN.

For the European Union, the report urges heightened awareness, the universal application of the Temporary Protection Directive, and the adoption of promising initiatives observed in certain EU countries. A multifaceted approach at the EU and national levels is recommended, encompassing legal frameworks, streamlined asylum processes, culturally sensitive services, public awareness campaigns, and financial support for NGOs.

For the past two years, we have worked jointly with our member organisations and independent Roma researchers to create a comprehensive analysis of the so-called bigger picture by bringing the perspective of the grassroots and connecting and empowering them. It is not in our power to stop the war. Still, we hope this report serves as a compelling call to action, stressing the need for sustained efforts to ensure the inclusion and well-being of the Roma refugee community in the broader European context.

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ERGO Network

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