Promoting the usa of ESI Funds for Roma inclusion

Development Fund (ERDF) Managing Authorities from participating countries are also

involved in Network activities.

To achieve this goal, the Network develops activities revolving around

three main lines of

action:

Mutual learning among Network partners.

Encouraging and facilitating the exchange

of information and experiences on topics of relevance and/or common interest for

Network partners as regards the use of Structural Funds for Roma inclusion (e.g.

strategies and approaches, (un)successful practices, lessons learned, challenges,

thematic areas…). Over the last years, particular attention has been paid to the

preparation of the 2014-2020 programming period of the European Structural and

Investment (ESI) Funds. Management Committee meetings, gathering Network

partners, are one of the key instruments used for this end.

Knowledge generation based on experience.

Generating knowledge on key aspects

related to the use of Structural Funds for Roma inclusion building upon the experience

and shared approaches of Network partners and the work and debate within the

Network. A wide variety of resources are produced including position papers and

recommendations, analysis of the situation, information and guidance materials,

guides and reports…All documents produced by the Network are available on the

EURoma website

(Resource Center).

Visibility and dissemination.

Making the Network, its activities and products visible

with a view to raise awareness among relevant stakeholders on the importance of

Structural Funds for Roma inclusion and on relevant aspects to achieve a more

efficient use of these funds. Different channels are used: EURoma Network website

, regular newsletters (available in English and Spanish) regarding

relevant developments about Structural Funds and Roma inclusion at EU level and in

the Network partner countries, presence in relevant fora, initiatives, decision-making

spaces and expert/consultative groups.

Active throughout the whole 2007-2013 programming period,

EURoma has become a

fundamental actor at European level as regards the inclusion of Roma population and

Structural Funds.

The Network has been not only highly valued by relevant actors, including

the Network partners and the European Commission, but also one of the most active

transnational networks over its eight years of operation. A number of factors demonstrate

the value and impact of EURoma including its composition and large scope (currently

involving fifteen Western and Eastern Member States); its capacity to bring together the