New solutions to old problems – exchange of new type of approaches in the field of Roma integration

The aim of the project entitled ‘New Solutions to Old Problems’ was to strengthen Roma integration in the participating countries, with a particular focus on education and employment.

The programme, based on professional cooperation between Roma and pro-Roma civil society organisations from the eleven countries, supported the development of Roma civil society in two ways:

• 1. Based on the needs and requirements of the communities, we identified one local-level best practice per participating country that helps to promote Roma integration in the fields of employment and education, as well as combating exclusion and racism against Roma, and which can be adapted and implemented by other organisations within local Roma communities. The project provided an opportunity for partners to share their knowledge with one another, which facilitated the adaptation of good practices and their implementation in other countries.
• 2. Over the course of the 34-month process, local organisations took part in training programmes tailored to their actual needs, through which we strengthened organisational capacities with organisational development, project management training and professional advocacy, with a view to taking more effective action against poverty and discrimination.

Countries participating in the programme: Albania, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Macedonia, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, Turkey.