Launching and first national workshop of ROMACT and ROMED2 in Romania

On 15 October 2013 in Bucharest, the ROMACT and ROMED2 programmes were launched in Romania. Having the largest Roma population in Europe, the implementation of the programmes in Romania will be extended from the average 5 to 6 municipalities in other participating countries (Bulgaria, Hungary, Italy and Slovakia) to 10 municipalities of various sizes among which Bucharest (6th sector), Botosani and Calarasi.

The launch event was attended by Romanian and European officials the complete list of which can be found in the agenda of the event, and among which Mr Daniel Vasile, President of National Agency for Roma, and Mr Florin Manole, President of Local Elected Roma Association. 

Representatives of the municipalities, presidents of county councils as well as health and school mediators working in the municipalities involved in the two programmes were also present. Local authorities and representatives of Roma communities showed a devoted interest in the ROMACT and ROMED2 programmes for their communities development. The strategic approach adapted to the local context was highly appreciated by participants, who were looking forward for the next phases of the programmes.

The launch event was followed by the first national workshop, where mayors of the municipalities together with mediators and representatives of various public services and ROMACT and ROMED2 trainers started preparing concrete plans for implementation in the municipalities chosen.

Strasbourg 22/10/2013