On the 29th and 30th of November, the Centre de Médiation des Gens du Voyage et des Roms en Wallonie is taking part to the European platform for Roma Inclusion, organized by the DG Justice of the European Commission. Focused on the theme of “Mutual accountability for all”, the European Platform for Roma Inclusion aims to contribute to making European and national policies more sensitive to Roma needs. The 2016 European Platform for Roma inclusion will provide the possibility for participatory interaction among all types of stakeholders of Roma integration (including national and local authorities of the EU Member States and enlargement countries, international organisations, European institutions, representatives of European and national Roma and pro-Roma civil society, media and academia)
In addressing Roma integration, all stakeholders play different roles depending on their mandates, competences and capacities. In the previous years we have witnessed significant steps being taken in developing policy, legal and funding instruments and coordination structures with the aim to improve the situation of Roma in Europe. However, there is still a long way to go to ensure real change in the life of Roma communities on the ground. The Platform will aim for a policy reflection on mutual accountability with regard to the effectiveness of policies and funding used at EU, national and local levels.
Active participation and representation of Roma in the inclusion process, empowerment of Roma women and youth, protection of Roma children was identified as key objectives to be achieved by public policy actors at all levels within the limits of their competences. The policies for Roma inclusion, including the fight against anti-gypsyism, should also target the mainstream population and serve to preserve Roma identity and culture.
Source : http://ec.europa.eu – 29th and 30th on november