This project draws on the interaction that both the internet and face-to-face encounters facilitate, with networking as the core strategy. By communicating with each other, Roma and Roma rights activists are exchanging knowledge on participation channels at a local, national, and EU level. One of the core activities of the project is the creation of a network of people/organisations involved in efforts to foster the social and political participation of Roma (in areas such as education, culture, policy, etc). Participating in this network entails receiving information to debate via email, and online dialogue through a specially created e-forum.

In addition, workshops and national panels in the various countries covered by the project are enabling discussions on how to make participation more accessible to Roma at a local, national, and EU level. These seminars have consistently included representatives of Roma associations engaged with issues related to political participation, immigration, and education. Roundtables have also featured attendance by representatives of the government, public administration, political parties, university personnel, and journalists. Based on these encounters, a report with concrete recommendations for improving the political participation of Roma will be elaborated and then presented and discussed at an international conference in Brussels, Belgium. The purpose of this experience will be to exchange information and discuss existing participation mechanisms at the EU level.

Political Participation, Rights.

"Due to the extremely low rates of Roma participation in decision making processes at the local, national and EU levels there is an urgent need to promote participation of the minority."

ERIO is an international advocacy organisation which promotes political and public discussion on Roma issues by providing information on a range of policy issues to European Union institutions, Roma civil organisations, governmental authorities, and intergovernmental bodies.