Introduction
We are pleased to present Eurodiaconia’s updated Guidelines on Tackling Anti-Roma Racism, a critical resource to support our members and partners in addressing systemic discrimination against Roma communities across Europe.
A Renewed Commitment to Combat Anti-Roma Racism
Anti-Roma racism remains one of Europe’s most entrenched forms of discrimination, deeply affecting Roma people’s access to education, employment, housing, and participation in public life. These Guidelines provide actionable steps to help diaconal actors and social service providers address these challenges and promote inclusion.
Highlights of the Updated Guidelines
The updated version of the Guidelines builds on the foundations laid in 2017, with updates informed by the discussions at Eurodiaconia’s Roma Inclusion Network meeting in November 2024 in Budapest. They are centred around six key focus areas, each complemented by updated best practices from our membership:
- Changing the Narrative: Addressing stereotypes and promoting public discourse that shifts from prejudice to understanding.
- Promoting Solidarity in Diversity: Upholding equality and celebrating the richness of Roma culture.
- Fostering Inclusive Church Communities: Encouraging churches to challenge discrimination and support empowerment.
- Increasing Roma Self-Determination: Strengthening Roma representation in education, employment, and decision-making.
- Raising Awareness of Roma Culture and History: Educating the public about Roma heritage and combating knowledge gaps.
- Coordinating Advocacy Actions: Collaborating with stakeholders to influence policies and promote systemic change.
Who Should Use These Guidelines?
This resource is invaluable for diaconal organizations, churches, and interested stakeholders dedicated to fostering Roma inclusion and challenging anti-Roma racism. The Guidelines are not designed to prescribe a one-size-fits all approach, but to showcase a wide range of potential actions that can be taken to tackle Anti-Roma Racism.
We would like to acknowledge the contributions of the Eurodiaconia Roma Inclusion Network for the development of this resource. We encourage our members to disseminate them within their own organization and among their partners.