Meaningful participation starts with listening. Across four partner countries, national workshops brought together education professionals, local authorities and organisations working with children to explore how Roma children can meaningfully participate in education and democratic processes that shape their lives.
As part of the Voices Unheard project, workshops held in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Greece and Ukraine engaged 72 participants representing schools, public institutions, civil society and local communities. Through dialogue and exchange, participants explored practical ways to strengthen children’s participation while building partnerships that will support the project’s long-term objectives.
Shared Priorities, Local Perspectives
While each workshop reflected its own national context, a common message emerged across all four countries: meaningful participation requires more than access to education. Participants highlighted the importance of creating inclusive environments where Roma children feel heard, respected and empowered to contribute to decisions that affect their lives. Discussions also emphasized stronger cooperation between schools, families, public institutions and communities as a key condition for lasting change.
At the same time, each country brought valuable local perspectives. Discussions ranged from improving school transitions and strengthening civic engagement to identifying practical ways of supporting educational inclusion and expanding opportunities for children to actively participate in school and community life.
Building Lasting Partnerships
Beyond identifying challenges, the workshops created a foundation for continued collaboration. National communication networks established through the project, including mailing lists, online platforms and messaging groups will enable exchange of knowledge and good practices, as well as coordination of activities throughout the implementation of the project.
This continued collaboration will play an important role in turning the ideas and recommendations discussed during the workshops into practical action.
Looking Ahead
The findings and recommendations gathered during the workshops will directly inform the next phase of the Voices Unheard project. They will serve as the foundation for upcoming activities, including the establishment of Civic Labs and Children’s Councils, helping partners develop sustainable mechanisms that strengthen Roma children’s participation in education and democratic life across the four partner countries.
About
Voices Unheard – Roma Children Leading the Way: Active Participation for a Brighter Future is co-funded by the European Union and implemented by OlamAid, together with Center for Youth Integration, KEAN, Nova Generacija and Voice of Romni, aimed to empower Roma children, particularly girls, by strengthening their participation in democratic processes and civic life.
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