Association for Roma Women’s Integration Loli Luludi, between 2022 and 2024, led an international project under Erasmus+ programme (KA210-ADU – Smaller Partnerships in the field of general adult education titled: Strengthening the capacities of the non-governmental sector working in the field of the Roma community and the inclusion of Roma women in the work of NGOs. Project number: KA210-ADU-0011/2022, was co-funded by the European Union.
The aim of the project was to strengthen the capacity of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) focused on improving equal opportunities for the Roma community, with a particular focus on empowering Roma women. This initiative brought together partner organisations from Slovenia, Hungary, Italy and Bulgaria.
The project aimed to strengthen the skills and capacities of both Roma working in NGOs and non-Roma staff working with the Roma community. In doing so, we aimed to increase the effectiveness of NGOs in addressing the specific needs of Roma women, who face unique challenges that require tailored support. Our main goal was to facilitate long-term progress and promote equal participation of Roma women in all aspects of life.
As part of the project, a series of transnational activities were carried out, highlighting the exchange of best practices between partner organisations. This included the development of methodologies focusing on individual, group and community work within the Roma community. One of the key intellectual outputs was a collection of good practices compiled in a freely accessible online publication. This publication presented successful methodologies and offered recommendations for implementing these practices in different geographical contexts.
The good practices selected drew on the diverse experiences of the partner organisations and represented innovative approaches to Roma inclusion that could be adapted to different contexts. We recognised the importance of transferring these practices to improve our work with Roma communities at EU level, especially within the NGO sector. By sharing effective strategies and insights, we aimed to strengthen cooperation and understanding between NGOs, which would ultimately contribute to a more inclusive society.
In addition to collecting good practices, the project also focused on local activities aimed at directly engaging the Roma community. Participating organisations documented their observations and knowledge, leading to a series of podcasts that offered insights into the work of the Roma community and highlighted the role of education in promoting positive change. Overall, this initiative has successfully strengthened the capacity of the NGO sector and empowered Roma women, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are adequately addressed in a way that promotes their full participation in society. By working together and sharing knowledge, we have strived to create a fairer future for the Roma community across Europe.
Information about partner consortium
The project is coordinated by the Association for Roma Women’s Integration Loli Luludi, a relatively new organisation founded in response to the aspirations of Roma women in Slovenia. Their aim is to empower Roma women through educational and recreational activities, thereby increasing their intellectual capacity and promoting equal participation beyond their immediate family and community circle. Loli Luludi focuses on overcoming cultural patterns that limit the active involvement of Roma women and works towards their integration into wider social processes. Although the organisation has so far worked mainly at the local level, it is expanding its efforts to promote the equal participation and inclusion of Roma women in decision-making processes.
The Slovenian partner, EPEKA Association, soc.ent., has been working with the Roma community since 2008 at local, national and international level. EPEKA implements a number of projects focusing on the social activation and empowerment of Roma, including initiatives targeting Roma women. With extensive experience in managing EU-funded projects, EPEKA actively involves members of the Roma community in Erasmus+ programmes, employment initiatives and volunteering, strengthening their participation in civil society.
The Bulgarian partner, Center for Interethnic Dialogue and Tolerance AMALIPE, has been working with Roma women and children for more than 20 years, focusing on education, health and social services. Work of AMALIPE emphasises the empowerment of vulnerable groups within the Roma community, especially women, through awareness-raising activities and direct support. The organisation works on sensitive issues such as early marriage and education, and uses its strong links with the local Roma community to implement effective programmes.
The Italian partner, Romni APS, was established in 2010 in response to the lack of representation of the needs of Roma women. The organisation focuses on women’s emancipation and the fight against gender discrimination within the Roma community. Romni APS work to promote Roma women’s education, integration and equal dignity in the Italian and European context. Through its grassroots initiatives, the organisation challenges stereotypes and promotes greater understanding and inclusion of Roma women.
The Hungarian partner, Association Co-Efficient, was founded in 2010 by social workers and young volunteers. The organisation promotes non-formal learning, innovative community services and social work. Association Co-Efficient believe that inclusive communities can promote personal development and equal opportunities for all. They are based in Budapest, access the EURODESK network and organise events that promote participation and support for both privileged and disadvantaged members of the community.
Project coordination: Association for Roma Women’s Integration Loli Luludi, in collaboration with partner organizations:
- EPEKA Association, soc. ent. (Slovenia),
- Center for Interethnic Dialogue and Tolerance AMALIPE (Bulgaria),
- Association Co-Efficient (Hungary),
- Associacione ROMNI ONLUS (Italy).
