Together with ERGO Network, Community Action Group – Kotel successfully delivered the two-day training “Combating Antigypsyism for Civil Society Representatives and Public Administration Officials” in Bulgaria.
The training brought together 20 representatives of civil society and public administration and created a space for open discussion, exchange of professional experience and practical learning.
During the first day, participants explored how offensive language, stereotypes and prejudice can contribute to discriminatory attitudes and unequal treatment of Roma people. Through interactive exercises and discussions, the group examined key concepts, the historical context of antigypsyism and its different manifestations in everyday life and institutional practice.
The second day focused on recognising hate speech and hate crimes, understanding the legal protection available against discrimination, and exploring appropriate responses to real-life situations. Participants worked on practical case studies, exchanged different perspectives and identified solutions they could apply in their professional practice.
Particular attention was given to the distinction between stereotypes, prejudice, discrimination, hate speech and hate crime, as well as to the role of civil society organisations and public institutions in preventing and responding to antigypsyism.
The highly interactive format encouraged participants to reflect critically on attitudes and behaviours that often remain unnoticed but can have serious consequences for Roma individuals, families and communities. Group work, practical exercises and discussions based on real cases were among the most valued elements of the training.
By the end of the two days, participants had strengthened their knowledge of antigypsyism and its consequences, improved their ability to recognise discriminatory practices and gained a better understanding of the European and Bulgarian legal frameworks for protection against discrimination.
We would like to thank everyone for their active participation, for sharing their experiences, and for their willingness to engage in an open discussion on a topic that is too often considered uncomfortable but should never be ignored.
The training content was developed based on materials from ERGO Network and VoRAE and adapted to the Bulgarian context.
