Roma European Union Romani Evropaki Unija JEKHIPE
POWER IS IN THE UNITY
Report from the Conference Held in Düsseldorf – December 15, 2024
Report from the Conference Held in Düsseldorf – December 15, 2024 Organizers and Objectives of the Conference: The Roma European Union (REU) Jekhipe, in collaboration with Roma Center e.V. and with the support and partnership of CARMEN e.V., organized a joint meeting in Düsseldorf, Germany. The purpose of the meeting was to bring together Roma organizations operating in Germany to discuss potential cooperation and strengthen joint actions. Roma organizations from Germany, Serbia, Belgium, and Bulgaria participated in the event. Location: The conference was held at AWO ZentrumPlus in Düsseldorf. Program and Activities: 09:00 – 09:15: Opening Remarks The conference was opened by representatives of Carmen e.V., Roma Center, and REU Jekhipe, who welcomed the participants and highlighted the importance of collective efforts to improve the political representation of Roma at both national and European levels. 09:15 – 10:00: Presentation of Participating Organizations The participating organizations introduced their activities, projects, and the challenges they face in their efforts to advance Roma rights in different countries. 10:00 – 11:00: Presentation and Discussion – Insufficient Political Representation of Roma A presentation was given on the current situation in Germany, emphasizing the limited political influence of the Roma community. The discussion focused on the reasons for this underrepresentation and potential ways to address it. 11:00 – 11:15: Coffee Break Participants had the opportunity to network informally and exchange ideas. 11:15 – 13:00: Workshop – Political Representation of Roma in Germany and Europe: What’s Next? Participants worked in groups to develop strategies addressing key issues, including: Structural and institutional discrimination and racism Combating right-wing extremism Roma participation in elections Structural funding for Roma organizations Strengthening cooperation among organizations 13:00 – 14:00: Lunch Break Participants enjoyed lunch and continued informal discussions. 14:00 – 15:30: Presentation and Discussion of Workshop Results The working groups presented the results of their discussions, which were then thoroughly reviewed. Key conclusions included the need for joint initiatives and enhanced political lobbying for Roma at all levels. 15:30 – 16:30: Plan for 2025 Participants agreed on key priorities for the upcoming year, including planning future meetings, raising awareness of Roma issues, and strengthening cooperation among organizations from different countries. Closing Remarks and Farewell: The conference concluded with the shared understanding that only through joint efforts can Roma organizations achieve significant progress in the fight for Roma rights and political representation. Conclusion: The conference in Düsseldorf provided an important platform for exchanging ideas, experiences, and strategies. The organizations agreed that cooperation is essential to overcoming challenges and improving the position of Roma across Europe.
Join the Roma European Union JEKHIPE!
Join the Roma European Union JEKHIPE!
The Roma European Union JEKHIPE is looking for new members – both men and women – who are ready to join our mission and community. If you are committed to advancing Roma rights and eager to contribute to positive change, this is your opportunity!
We are currently prioritizing the expansion of our membership in Germany, and we invite everyone interested in making a difference in the Roma community to apply.
As a member of JEKHIPE, you will have the opportunity to:
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Actively participate in key decision-making processes for the community.
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Develop and improve projects that enhance the quality of life for Roma across Europe.
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Collaborate with experts and organizations on local, national, and international levels.
Your voice matters. Become part of a movement that builds bridges, creates opportunities, and changes the future for generations to come!Interested?
Interested? Click on the document below to learn more and apply for membership in our Union.
Introduction
The Romani European Union (REU) – JEKHIPE is an international non-governmental organization dedicated to improving the rights, integration, and status of Roma across Europe. Founded in late 2020 and officially registered in early 2021 as a non-profit organization based in Belgium.
REU-JEKHIPE invites all organizations, institutions, and individuals who share our vision to join us in our mission to empower the Romani community. Through collaboration and active membership, together we can strengthen Romani unity and advocate for equality and rights for Roma across Europe.
Whether you are an individual, organization, or institution, your support and participation can contribute to our efforts in fighting discrimination, promoting education, and creating a fairer society for all. Join us and be part of the change!
Collaboration with Organizations and Institutions
REU-JEKHIPE actively collaborates with various organizations, institutions, and international partners to jointly improve the rights and status of Roma across Europe. Through partnerships with non-governmental organizations, governments, European institutions, and local communities, we work to enhance access to education, employment, healthcare, and legal support for Roma.
Our collaboration is based on the exchange of knowledge, resources, and experiences, with the goal of creating a more inclusive society where the Roma community is recognized as an important part of Europe’s cultural and social identity.
Our Vision
Our vision is a Europe where Roma are equal and respected members of society, free from discrimination and prejudice. We strive to build a society where the rights of Roma are fully protected, and their rich culture and heritage are recognized and valued as part of the European identity.
Our Mission
The mission of REU-JEKHIPE is to empower Romani communities through education, legal support, and social inclusion. We actively work to combat discrimination and racism against Roma, promote equal access to education, employment, and healthcare, and advocate for Roma rights at the international level.
The honorary members of the
Roma Eruopean Union JEKHIPE
