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Description
The project brings a new approach in Romania to increasing the capacity of vulnerable groups to know and demand their rights - the community paralegal. The concept has already been implemented in other countries and through this project we will build on the experience of the Republic of Moldova which has had a network of community paralegals for years. In Romania the concept will be piloted in 5 Roma communities and the lessons that will be learnt from this experience will help us in formulating and promoting a public policy proposal at national level. We know from the experience of other countries that paralegals are especially involved in solving recurring problems at local level – these problems occur either through the interaction between citizens and the public institutions, or through the interaction between individuals. As to be able to help paralegals in their efforts we will conduct an analysis on the first 3 recurring problems that occur in interactions between vulnerable groups and public institutions and we will identify practical solutions to help provide better public service. The information gathered will be integrated training tools that will be made available to community paralegals. From the perspective of increasing the capacity of organizations part of the project, we expect the following concrete results: the consolidation of strategic directions (such as the Annual Report and the Map of Political Clientelism) and an increased impact at local level for EFOR and Terni Godi Association. Also, Terni Godi Association will develop its capacity to react quickly and efficiently to specific legal needs of the vulnerable groups and to empower its members, the young Roma students, by involving them in mobilizing the selected Roma communities. Last but not least, the National Association of Paralegals of the Republic of Moldova has the opportunity to reflect on the efficiency of their model.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address the lack of capacity in selected Roma communities to understand and claim their rights. Poverty is not only driven by insufficient resources but also by poor governance and lack of knowledge about the needs of vulnerable groups. Over 80% of Roma citizens in Romania live in poverty, compared to 40% of non-Roma citizens. These barriers hinder their access to basic rights such as health, education, and housing.
The project piloted the use of community paralegals in five Roma communities. Seven paralegals were trained to provide legal assistance, help resolve conflicts, and support access to essential services.
The paralegals’ work resulted in improved access to essential services for community members. Over 500 individuals were assisted, and the project produced policy recommendations for the establishment of a national community paralegal system. Key stakeholders, including public authorities, were engaged in discussions to promote this model.
This project helped Roma communities better understand and exercise their rights, improving their access to public services. The concept of community paralegals has the potential to be scaled nationally, offering a sustainable solution to empower vulnerable populations and improve their engagement with public institutions.