Register for the Webinar on Antigypsyism:
Power of defining antigypsyism: Does a definition impact how we fight antigypsyism nationally?
Date: 3rd December, 2024
Time: 14h40 – 16h30
Format: Online
Background and Context
Antigypsyism remains a significant and deeply rooted issue across Europe, affecting the lives of millions within the Roma communities. Despite various legal frameworks, policies, and commitments from national and European institutions, implementing impactful, coordinated actions is still lacking. The challenge lies in the sustained, institutional commitment to address and eliminate antigypsyism in all its forms effectively.
This webinar aims to bring together key actors – from European and national institutions to civil society organisations – to explore actionable strategies that institutionalise the fight against antigypsyism. With contributions from prominent organisations like ECRI (European Commission against Racism and Intolerance), IHRA (International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance), the Czech Governmental Commissioner for Roma Affairs or MIA agency, and Equinet, the webinar will spotlight how institutional actions can meaningfully impact Roma communities. The event will empower civil society actors to engage actively through a participatory approach, fostering dialogue and promoting actionable outcomes.
Objectives
The primary objective of the webinar is to facilitate meaningful dialogue on the institutional and societal roles necessary to tackle antigypsyism in Europe. Key objectives include:
Key Points for Emphasis
Strengthen Policy Frameworks for Member States
This session will explore how member states can utilise European frameworks, such as the EU Roma Strategic Framework, to institutionalise antigypsyism responses. By showcasing effective policies, tools, and legal frameworks, the webinar aims to create a blueprint to support policymakers and advocate for harmonising efforts. Speakers will examine gaps in current policies and share actionable recommendations to strengthen implementation across various European contexts, including the actions for civil society at the national and local levels.
Encourage National Advocacy Efforts
For meaningful change, it is crucial to empower civil society organisations at the national level, enabling them to advocate effectively within their local contexts. This session will focus on how organisations can engage with national policymakers and push for institutional support to fight antigypsyism. Practical advocacy techniques, successful case studies, and resources for collaboration with governmental and institutional bodies will be shared, inspiring civil society actors to pursue sustained, evidence-based advocacy.
Agenda
14:40 Welcoming participants and introduction
14:45 Keynote Address: Setting the Scene on approaches to define Antigypsyism in Europe
- Gabriela Hrabanova, Director ERGO Network
- Stelina Dungaj, ERGO Network
14:50 Panel Discussion 1: Institutional Roles and Responsibilities
- Lucie Horvathova, The Czech Governmental Commissioner for Roma Affairs
- Robert Rustem, European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI), Council of Europe
- Mustafa Jakupov, Melde- und Informationsstelle Antiziganismus (MIA)
- Daris José Lewis Recio, European Network of Equality Bodies (EQUINET)
15:30 Panel Discussion 2: Reflection of effective advocacy approaches at the national level
- Senada Sali, European Roma Rights Centre
- Zuzana Havirová, Roma Advocacy and Research Centre, Slovakia
16:00 Interactive Session: Q&A with Civil Society
16:15 Closing
Expected outcomes:
- Increased understanding of institutional roles in combating antigypsyism.
- Identification of gaps in policy frameworks and suggestions for strengthening them.
- Practical strategies for civil society to advocate for institutionalised responses to antigypsyism at the national level.
- A collaborative framework for ongoing engagement among European institutions, national bodies, and civil society.
