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Description
The project aims to improve the position of marginalized Roma communities (MRC) and their opportunities in society through the implementation of cost-effective and sustainable measures integrating four areas: Education, Employment, Housing, and the prevention of Discrimination. The project aims to create networks and strategic partnerships in target MRC between the Applicant, Project Partners, and Collaborating Entities at the multilateral level.
Project contributes to following cross-cutting issues. Gender equality - All genders have equal rights and opportunities in this project. It includes equally women and men into the project. Community workers, Teachers, Public, Partners represent both genders. Social inclusion of vulnerable groups - The project participants come from different social and economic groups, but mostly from MRC. Project activities are based on cooperation, dialog mutual respect between children, youth, adults. Roma inclusion and empowerment - Applicant, project partners and cooperation institutions involved in the project are attended by pupils from the MRC from disadvantaged backgrounds with school absence and worse school results. Anti-discrimination - The project is focused on human rights issues. Respect for human rights is part of the program and strategy of all partners involved. In the project, all participants are treated equally, regardless of their racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Transparency and anti-corruption - both the applicant and the partners are part of the Public and the NGO sector and will follow laws, procurement rules applicable to each organization. All related contracts will be published in the relevant contract register. Project partners increase the socio-economic benefits of the project, and contributes to an integrated approach implemented in more areas of intervention - employment and non – discrimination.
Summary of project results
The Opportunity Centrum Valaská project aimed to tackle critical challenges faced by marginalized Roma communities in Slovakia. These included systemic discrimination, limited access to education, employment, and quality housing, as well as persistent social exclusion. Many Roma families endure high levels of poverty and restricted opportunities, perpetuating cycles of disadvantage and hindering their integration into mainstream society. One of the significant hurdles encountered during the project was the lack of acceptance and support from the majority population, complicating efforts to implement inclusive initiatives. The overarching climate of discrimination posed obstacles to building trust and fostering cooperation between Roma and non-Roma communities. However, a notable milestone was achieved through the motivation and self-help efforts of marginalized Roma communities, which positively influenced the perceptions of the majority population. This shift in attitudes marked a critical step toward promoting understanding, cohesion, and inclusive development in the region.
The project implemented a comprehensive range of activities to address the challenges faced by marginalized Roma communities, focusing on improving their living conditions and creating opportunities for integration and development. Educational programs were a key component, with workshops and training sessions enhancing the skills and employability of Roma individuals. These activities included vocational training, IT education in primary schools, improving basic skills, and financial literacy education. These programs were implemented collaboratively by partners, particularly Mesto Lučenec and Agentúra práce BBSK, ensuring a coordinated approach. Housing initiatives were another critical focus, facilitating cooperation with local authorities and organizations to improve access to quality housing for Roma families. This included self-help construction projects and social housing improvements, led by the non-profit organization Projekt DOM.ov, which provided Roma families with secure and sustainable living environments. To combat stereotypes and promote inclusiveness, the project organized awareness-raising campaigns that engaged local communities and stakeholders in dialogues about Roma rights and integration. These campaigns helped foster understanding, challenge prejudices, and promote social cohesion. In addition, the project prioritized partnership development, bringing together local authorities, NGOs, and Roma communities to collaborate on sustainable solutions. These partnerships created a foundation for long-term impact and ongoing cooperation to address the systemic challenges faced by Roma communities. Through these integrated activities, the project not only addressed immediate needs but also worked toward building a more inclusive and equitable society for marginalized Roma communities in Slovakia.
The project achieved significant outcomes, contributing to improved living conditions, greater awareness, and empowered communities for marginalized Roma populations. Improved living conditions were realized as many Roma families gained access to quality housing, significantly enhancing their standards of living and overall well-being. Additionally, the project fostered greater awareness and advocacy by increasing understanding among local authorities and the general public about the challenges faced by Roma communities. This effort helped reduce discrimination, promote inclusivity, and strengthen social cohesion within local communities. Through engagement and capacity-building initiatives, the project also created empowered communities, where Roma individuals were equipped with the tools and confidence to advocate for their rights and take an active role in their own development and integration. These combined achievements represent a meaningful step toward addressing systemic barriers and fostering a more equitable society.
Summary of bilateral results
he involvement of CBNRM Networking as a donor partner significantly enhanced the project’s effectiveness. Their expertise in community development and social inclusion in Norway provided valuable insights and best practices, while facilitating knowledge exchange and capacity building for local partners. This bilateral cooperation strengthened partnerships and networks between Slovak and Norwegian organizations, creating a foundation for ongoing collaboration. Key outcomes included the sharing of methodologies and resources essential for addressing challenges faced by marginalized communities, and cross-cultural learning, which enriched the project with innovative, locally tailored solutions. Examples of good practices were shared through two conferences in Lučenec, workshops, and a working trip to Norway. Plans are in place to continue this cooperation, focusing on expanding successful programs, fostering partnerships, and integrating lessons learned into policy frameworks. Sustained collaboration between Slovak and Norwegian partners aims to ensure long-term impacts and promote inclusive practices for marginalized communities.