To mark Roma Resistance Day on 16 May, Bosnia and Herzegovina hosted a three-day event in Sarajevo titled "The Voice of Young Roma – Change Begins With Us!". The event brought together young Roma, institutional representatives, and international organisations to promote youth participation in policymaking and foster social inclusion.
Young Roma Leading the Way
Throughout the event, young Roma shared their experiences and ideas for shaping a more inclusive society. They actively contributed to improving the draft Action Plan for the Social Inclusion of Roma 2026–2030, offering recommendations aimed at increasing opportunities in education, employment, and civic life.
Participants also deepened their knowledge of Roma history and culture, and addressed the importance of combating antigypsyism and discrimination through education, activism, and collaboration.
Joint Efforts for Inclusive Policies
Organised by the Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Otaharin Association, Caritas Switzerland, and the Council of Europe–European Union Joint Programme "Roma Integration III", the event aimed to encourage youth-led action and strengthen Roma involvement in policy development.
During group workshops, participants identified key challenges faced by Roma youth and outlined priorities for the upcoming Action Plan. Several concrete initiatives were proposed and will be supported for implementation by Caritas Switzerland.
Confronting Discrimination and Celebrating Identity
The event highlighted good practices in challenging prejudice and transforming narratives about Roma communities. These included using digital tools and social media to promote inclusion and raise awareness. Participants discussed the importance of remembrance, especially in connection with Roma history and the fight against systemic discrimination.
The Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees presented new institutional guidelines to combat antigypsyism. The Otaharin Association also presented findings from a study focused on the discrimination of Roma in Bosnia and Herzegovina, supported by the Joint CoE–EU Programme "Roma Integration III".
Key Messages from the Event
In his opening address, Kemo Sarač, Assistant Minister for Human Rights and Refugees, stressed the need to preserve Roma language, history, and culture, and underscored the central role young Roma will play in implementing the new Action Plan.
Anna Goos, Director of Caritas Switzerland, reminded participants that activism comes in many forms and emphasised the historic and ongoing contributions of Roma communities to European society.
Dragan Joković of the Otaharin Association encouraged active engagement and creative expression, voicing hope that the event would inspire lasting collaboration among participants.
Dragana Jovanović Arijas, Coordinator of the Council of Europe–EU Joint Programme, noted that the event’s timing—on Roma Resistance Day—was a reminder of the importance of visibility, participation, and youth-led change. She also announced the preparation of a new Council of Europe strategy for Roma and Traveller inclusion for 2026–2030, where youth will remain a key focus.
Support and Acknowledgements
This event was supported by the Council of Europe–EU Joint Programme "Roma Integration III", and Caritas Switzerland through the project "Integrated Approach to Social Inclusion", funded by the Governments of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
