From the US to France: Shortly after participating in the UN Commission on the Status of Women in New York, Anzhelika Bielova travelled to Strasbourg for the 19th Council of Europe Dialogue Meeting with Roma and Traveller Civil Society.

There, she not only represented the Roma community of Ukraine but also moderated one of the key panel discussions — “Equality of Roma and Traveller Women, Youth and Children.” Together with representatives from Greece, the Czech Republic, Belgium, and Hungary, she discussed the challenges and best practices in the fight for equal rights.

“My session focused on the topic of equality for Roma and Traveller women, youth, and children. It was extremely important for me to highlight the role of Roma women in human rights work and activism, and — in the context of Ukraine — in humanitarian response and recovery. I am proud to be part of strengthening the Roma women’s movement and uniting Roma women leaders in Ukraine and across Europe,” said Anzhelika Bielova.

The Council of Europe meeting served as an important platform to discuss the pressing issues faced by Roma and Traveller communities across Europe.

The main objectives of the event were:

  • to lay the groundwork for the Council of Europe’s future policy framework on the inclusion of Roma and Traveller communities;
  • to present the Council of Europe’s Strategic Action Plan for the Inclusion of these communities and assess its implementation;
  • to gather proposals for further developing cooperation between the Council of Europe and civil society;
  • to exchange best practices for removing barriers to social inclusion;
  • to identify topics that could be included in the next Council of Europe strategy on Roma and Traveller inclusion.

The meeting brought together representatives of Roma and Traveller organizations, including women’s and youth initiatives, as well as experts from international and national institutions. A particularly important role was played by representatives of the Council of Europe, including members of the Committee of Experts on Roma and Traveller Issues and the Roma and Travellers Team, who are responsible for implementing the Council of Europe’s Strategic Action Plan for the Inclusion of Roma and Travellers 2020–2025.

April has been declared Roma Month by the Council of Europe under the motto “Opre Roma!” in recognition of the importance of Roma history, language, and culture as part of Europe’s shared heritage. The slogan “Opre Roma!” was first heard at the 1st World Romani Congress in 1971, and to this day remains a symbol of unity and resilience for our community. Voice of Romni’s participation in this international dialogue once again highlights the vital role of Roma women and youth. It contributes to shaping the future of inclusion and equality policies for Roma and Traveller communities across Europe.