This 9 May, Europe Day, we call for a more social, inclusive and equality-driven Europe [editar]

At the Fundación Secretariado Gitano, we celebrate this new Europe Day by reaffirming our commitment to the European project with a strong call to action: at a decisive moment for the future of the Union, it is essential to strengthen the European social model and ensure that the principles of equality, inclusion and social justice are translated into concrete and effective policies and investments.

In a complex geopolitical context, marked by multiple crises that directly affect the rights and wellbeing of millions of people, we believe it is more necessary than ever for Europe not to take a step backwards. The defence of fundamental rights, social cohesion, and the fight against discrimination must be at the heart of the shared European project.

At present, European institutions are engaged in defining the next Multiannual Financial Framework (2028–2030), which will determine the EU’s investment priorities for the coming years. The Fundación Secretariado Gitano urges that this new framework must clearly and decisively support the strengthening of social policies. It is especially urgent to maintain and enhance the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), as a key instrument for promoting the inclusion of the most vulnerable groups and for building a more cohesive Europe.

The Roma population, historically excluded and still today suffering from high levels of poverty, segregation and discrimination, must be placed at the centre of these policies. Combating social exclusion requires structural measures across crucial areas such as education, employment, health and, in particular, housing. In this regard, the eradication of slum housing and segregated settlements must be a priority across Europe, as one of the most urgent human rights and social justice challenges. The upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (2028–2030) can—and must—play a key role in achieving this.

On this 9 May, we express our strong belief that only a Europe that guarantees equality and dignity for all can successfully face today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.

We stand for a European Union that protects those in vulnerable situations and reaffirms its commitment to a fairer, more inclusive and more united society—one in which Roma people have the same rights guaranteed as everyone else.