The steppe Roma - a story about the past and roads to modernity

Project facts

Project promoter:
Labor Training and Consulting Center(RO)
Project Number:
RO-CULTURE-0049
Status:
Completed
Final project cost:
€181,611
Other Project Partners
Ialomita County Museum(RO)

Description

The project targets the Roma population from 10 localities in the steppe area, which are facing economic, social and cultural underdevelopment. The target group includes as direct beneficiaries 500 people participating in project activities, and the indirect beneficiaries are communities and local authorities, at least 700 internet users. Roma face exclusion from the labor market, increased poverty, emigration, access to seasonal jobs, discrimination and ethnic segregation. The intervention addresses the needs of empowerment, increasing self-confidence and strengthening cultural identity, desegregation and eliminating discriminatory stereotypes. The project specific objectives include the empowerment of 64 young people / students of Roma ethnicity by developing skills specific to the cultural and creative sectors; consolidation of the cultural identity of 30 young people / Roma students through non-formal education and improving the reception of Roma culture and implicitly increasing the degree of inclusion by making and promoting artistic productions / cultural products.

Summary of project results

The project aimed to address key challenges faced by Roma communities in the steppe area of southeastern Romania, including the need for empowerment, increased self-confidence, and the strengthening of cultural identity. It sought to combat segregation and eliminate discriminatory stereotypes that contribute to social and economic marginalization.

The general objective was to enhance the economic and social development of Roma communities in ten localities through cultural interventions and modern art. By integrating artistic expression with community engagement, the project aimed to create opportunities for Roma individuals to affirm their identity, build resilience, and foster greater inclusion within society.

The project raised public awareness of Roma culture through sociological research, a documentary film, a culinary recipe book, and an online platform for promoting Roma cultural heritage. It empowered Roma communities through a creative writing circle, a digital narrative photography training, an experiential theater workshop, a storytelling workshop, and a traditional culinary art training program. Additionally, 10 exhibition events were organized to showcase Roma cultural expressions and heritage.

The project empowered 64 Roma students by developing skills relevant to the cultural and creative sectors, fostering self-confidence and artistic expression. It also provided non-formal education to 30 Roma students, strengthening their cultural identity and engagement. Additionally, Roma artistic and cultural products were promoted to 838 participants, increasing public awareness and appreciation of Roma heritage.

Information on the projects funded by the EEA and Norway Grants is provided by the Programme and Fund Operators in the Beneficiary States, who are responsible for the completeness and accuracy of this information.