As the first of its kind in Serbia, the EU Opportunity Week was organised from 21 to 26 June by the EU Delegation and the Government of the Republic of Serbia. The week-long event was a unique opportunity to find out everything about available funds and development opportunities, which are funded by the European Union.

ROMACTED Programme was invited as the only joint European Union and Council of Europe programme to present the methodology and positive practices of good governance and Roma empowerment to the national and international stakeholders, donors, representatives of the central and local authorities, and civil society organisations. The presentation of the Programme was part of the Local Development Day on 26 June in Niš, being placed in the same line with relevant ministries, Standing Conference of towns and municipalities in Serbia, UNDP, UNOPS, etc.

Ms Marina Vasic, ROMACTED Programme Manager, stressed out the significance and proven success of the ROMACTED Programme methodology that brings together two target groups – local authorities and members of Roma community and enables them to, through an inclusive process, set priorities and develop joint approach and action plans to address them. At the same time, ROMACTED small grants scheme projects were presented that support partner local self-governments in their efforts to address the needs and priorities proposed by the local Roma communities in the areas of employment, education, health, improvement of living conditions and overcoming the consequences of the COVID-19.

Photo credits: EU Info Centre

The event served as a great opportunity to further promote work of the Council of Europe and Roma and Travellers Team and to remind wider audience on the importance of the sustainable development goals that ensure inclusion of all parts of the society.