Romani_population_average_estimateEurodiaconia members are warmly invited to attend the annual Roma Network Meeting on 13-14 October in Uppsala, Sweden.

The focus of the Network Meeting will be on a topic which is increasingly recognised as a core obstacle to achieving sustainable societal inclusion for Roma: Anti-Gypsyism, similar to antisemitism, refers to the structural pattern of tacit prejudice, overt discrimination and violence which Roma people are facing across Europe.

Why address Anti-Gypsyism as diaconal actors?

Social inclusion and anti-discrimination measures are increasingly recognised as two sides of one coin. Equal access to housing, employment, health or education cannot be effectively guaranteed without addressing the root causes of inequality. Harmful narratives and stereotypes about the Roma have existed for a long time, also within the church, and continue to undermine the political willingness to act.

The 2016 Roma Network meeting explores what role diaconal actors can play in combating Anti-Gypsyism, and how they can mainstream anti-discrimination measures in their actions. Which means do they have at their disposal as providers of basic services? How can they effectively advocate for positive change within church communities and political settings? Based on their own experiences and on the input received during the meeting, members will jointly draft ‘Guidelines for diaconal actors on combating anti-gypsyism’ for internal and external use.

To access the invitation letter, please click here.

To access the draft agenda, please click here.

To register, please click here. The registration deadline is 16 September.