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Description
Programme outcome the project contributes to: “Enhanced inclusion and empowerment of Roma”.
The project shall include the following activities:
- Educational support activities, such as a study centre, tutoring, school transport, vocational training, and IT/internet access;
- Cultural, sport and recreational activities to facilitate dialogue between Roma and non-Roma communities;
The EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) will provide, as the international partner organisation, technical expertise and assistance based on its experience in Roma social inclusion at local level, also in Greece.
Summary of project results
The project''s purpose is: a) the sustainable integration of young Roma, who are members of the beneficiary families, into local society and into the social and economic fabric of Katerini.
The physical object of the Project concerned soft actions, with the aim of: sustainable integration into the local society of young Roma, who are members of the beneficiary families, as well as their integration into the social and economic fabric of Katerini. More specifically, the most important actions concerned:
• the implementation of remedial teaching for Roma students, as in Greek society student dropout refers to the abandonment of education before completing high school education, which is defined as the minimum, mandatory educational level for every Greek citizen.
• The provision of psychosocial support services through trained personnel (psychologists and social workers) to empower Roma women and girls at all levels and to remove the multiple exclusions they face daily.
• The Strengthening social inclusion through sport.
The project reflected the need to fulfill this social duty of addressing social inequalities. Among the main functions of the project will be to facilitate the empowerment of women providing seminars on family planning, vocational training and employment, as well as household management. They also act as a referral facility that transfers requests to other public authorities and services within the area, e.g. shelters for abused women and victims of trafficking.
Supply of school supplies for equipping the classrooms
Recruitment of teachers for remedial teaching of Primary students
Recruitment of teachers for remedial teaching of middle school and high school students
Supply of equipment to support the football team
Recruitment of transition experts in social housing
Technical Support Consultant Services for the maturation, specialization, monitoring, and management of the physical object
Installation of wireless Wi-Fi access in the camp including operating costs and works
Promotion and publicity of the project of social integration: Capturing and recording through filming the current everyday life of the Roma.
Promotion and publicity of the project of social integration: Capturing and recording through filming the current everyday life of the Roma.
Supply of 1 generator for the orderly operation of the classrooms
Supply of computers and consumables for remedial teaching
• Outputs: Social inclusion services provided to Roma. Task Force on Roma inclusion strengthened. Capacity of Roma Community Services reinforced. Awareness-raising campaigns combatting anti-Roma attitudes conducted
The advocacy capacity of Roma NGOs was reinforced. Roma children were supported to attend summer camp.
Roma children in Katerini were supported to participate in educational & athletic activities.
The broader impact of the "Integrated Pilot Social Housing Relocation Scheme for Roma Inclusion" extends beyond the direct benefits to the Roma community. By addressing systemic barriers and fostering inclusion, the project creates ripple effects across multiple societal levels.
1. Increased Awareness and Reduction of Discrimination
• Local Community: Awareness campaigns and engagement activities foster mutual understanding between Roma and non-Roma residents, breaking down stereotypes and reducing social tensions.
• Policy Level: The project serves as a case study, raising awareness among policymakers about effective strategies for inclusion and equitable resource distribution.
• Youth Engagement: Younger generations within both Roma and non-Roma communities gain exposure to diversity and inclusion values, promoting long-term cultural change.
2. Strengthened Community Cohesion
• Integration efforts reduce social divides, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and mutual respect.
• By involving local stakeholders in project implementation, the initiative strengthens partnerships between Roma communities, local authorities, and non-governmental organizations.
3. Policy Innovation and Replicability
• The project demonstrates a scalable model for integrating marginalized communities, inspiring similar initiatives in other municipalities.
• It provides insights into best practices for housing relocation, anti-discrimination measures, and community integration that can inform regional, national, and EU-wide policies.
4. Enhanced Social Stability
• Social inclusion reduces the potential for conflict, crime, and unrest associated with marginalization.
• Building an inclusive society strengthens the resilience of the municipality, making it a more attractive place for businesses, residents, and external investments.
5. Empowerment of Marginalized Groups
• Roma families gain confidence and agency through improved living conditions, education, and participation in decision-making processes.
• Empowered Roma youth serve as role models, challenging negative perceptions and inspiring positive change within their communities.
6. Strengthened Municipality Capacity
• Local authorities gain experience in implementing complex social projects, improving their capacity to address other community challenges.
• The municipality’s success in fostering inclusion enhances its reputation, potentially attracting further funding and support.
Conclusion
The broader impact of the project lies in its ability to catalyze systemic change. Beyond addressing the immediate needs of the Roma community, it creates a foundation for sustainable development, social harmony, and a more inclusive society in Katerini. This ripple effect reinforces the project''s significance as a transformative initiative for both marginalized groups and the broader community.