A key step toward improving Roma integration in Albania was taken this week as 24 representatives from Roma civil society organizations participated in a capacity-building training focused on the monitoring and implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP) for Roma Inclusion.
Organised under the framework of the Roma Integration III Joint Programme of the European Union and the Council of Europe, the training aimed to enhance participants’ skills in needs assessment, data collection and analysis, policy advocacy, and the use of monitoring tools.
Building Skills, Addressing Gaps
The training provided an opportunity for Roma civil society members to deepen their understanding of policy gaps and explore practical solutions. By focusing on both technical and strategic aspects of policy engagement, the training helped strengthen institutional capacities and led to the development of targeted advocacy plans.
Participants discussed key challenges impacting Roma communities, including limited institutional capacity, the lack of reliable data, and widespread socio-economic exclusion. The training also served as a collaborative space to share experiences and identify common priorities.
Recommendations and Next Steps of Roma Civil Society Organisations
Among the key recommendations emerging from the training were calls to:
- Improve national policy monitoring frameworks
- Strengthen partnerships between institutions and Roma civil society
- Ensure Roma inclusion in mainstream national policies
Looking ahead, participants outlined concrete actions to advance Roma rights, including advocacy for legislative reforms, the inclusion of Roma language and history in national curricula, and efforts to increase Roma political representation.
Driving Systemic Change
This training marked a significant step in building a more inclusive policy environment in Albania. By empowering Roma civil society to engage more effectively with institutions, the initiative supports broader efforts to promote equality, dignity, and active citizenship for Roma communities.
The initiative was supported by the Roma Integration III Joint Programme of the European Union and the Council of Europe, implemented by the Roma and Travellers Division of the Council of Europe.
