Fundación Secretariado Gitano participates in the closing workshop of the Roma Civil Monitoring 2021-2025 project in Budapest [editar]

At the headquarters of the Central European University (CEU) in Budapest, national coordinators and the consortium of the Roma Civil Monitoring (RCM) project, together with the European Commission, met to hold the closing meeting of the Roma Civil Monitoring 2021-2025 project. “Preparatory Action – Roma Civil Monitoring – Strengthening Capacity and Involvement of Roma and pro-Roma Civil Society in Policy Monitoring and Review”.

At the headquarters of the Central European University (CEU) in Budapest, national coordinators and the consortium of the Roma Civil Monitoring (RCM) project, together with the European Commission, met to hold the closing meeting of the Roma Civil Monitoring 2021-2025 project. Fundación Secretariado Gitano (FSG) played an active role in this workshop, whose main objective was to close the four-year cycle of work, carry out a participatory evaluation, strengthen the capacities of the organisations and discuss the continuity of similar initiatives in the future.

The first day included presentations by the CEU and a feedback session where the coordinators shared their experiences within the framework of the project. The European Commission presented its plans to continue supporting civil society participation in monitoring the implementation of the National Strategies for Roma Equality, Inclusion and Participation (NRSF). In the afternoon, they visited the Romano Kher, a Roma cultural centre, where they discussed the effects of de-democratisation in Hungary on the Roma community and enjoyed an exhibition of local art and culture.

On the second day, the coordinators presented the progress made in implementing the NRSFs in different EU countries. In addition, the CEU and the FSG moderated a session on the use of RCM results in political advocacy, and practical training was offered on the use of artificial intelligence to strengthen the work of civil society organisations.

This meeting reaffirmed the value of independent monitoring by civil society organisations and the importance of consolidating European networks to sustain it over time. The combination of technical sessions, field visits and practical training demonstrated the commitment to continuing the work of Roma Civil Monitoring, exploring new tools and partnerships for the future.

ROMA CIVIL MONITOR

The RCM 2021-2025 initiative is promoted by the European Commission and implemented by a consortium of internationally renowned organisations: Democracy Institute of the Central European University (CEU), ERGO Network, Fundación Secretariado Gitano and European Roma Rights Centre (ERRC). The RCM contributes to the objectives of the new European framework by strengthening the capacities of Roma and pro-Roma civil society for the independent monitoring of national strategies, supporting their advocacy and communication work, and promoting dialogue with the authorities responsible for inclusion and equality.