Roma and Sinti youth as agents of change in spotlight at ODIHR event in Warsaw

The challenges and opportunities related to the participation of Roma and Sinti youth in public and political life, as well as their civic engagement to defend and promote the human rights of the entire community, were the main topics of an event held on 25 September 2019 in Warsaw. The event was organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) within the framework of ODIHR’s annual human rights conference, the Human Dimension Implementation Meeting.

The event provided space for an open discussion between representatives of participating States and Roma and Sinti activists on ways to enhance the participation of Roma and Sinti youth and their capacity as human rights defenders.

“During this event we learned about the challenges Roma and Sinti youth face across the OSCE area and shared our experiences in engaging Roma youth at the local level,” said Alen Umer from the Local Youth Council of Shuto Orizari, North Macedonia. “Upscaling such practices and engaging with relevant authorities is essential for the effective participation of Roma and Sinti youth in the policy processes that concern them.”

The  active participation of Roma and Sinti youth is key to ensuring their involvement and empowerment in line with the OSCE’s broader capacity building mandate under the 2003 Action Plan on Improving the Situation of Roma and Sinti within the OSCE Area.