Events

A Joint Policy Approach to Romani Women’s Economic, Social and Political Empowerment by learning from Contemporary World Developments

26 – 27 March, 2009 | Sofia, Bulgaria

The Bulgarian National Decade Coordinator and Ministry of Labor and Social Policy are planning to organize an International Conference, which will be held on 26 – 27 March 2009 in Sofia, Bulgaria

The title of the international conference is: “A Joint Policy Approach to Romani Women’s Economic, Social and Political Empowerment by learning from Contemporary World Developments”.

The objective of the conference is to assess, transfer and build key policies and programs or other institutional arrangements in the Decade member states aiming at combating poverty, social exclusion and discrimination against Romani women while strengthening the role Romani women play in the family and society, in promoting and building better democracies and inclusive communities (societies).

The conference will look at policies and projects that work in promoting and supporting gender equality and non-discrimination within the Decade countries and beyond and will try to find practical ways to transfer positive experiences impacting women and develop sustainable partnerships with key actors in order to build concrete measures at national, local, regional and transnational levels. Increased attention will be focused on combating the multiple discrimination against Roma women through meaningful state policies and programs. Achieving gender equality for Romani women demands ensuring their full participation in the social, economic and political life as well as to valorize their potential by ensuring their access to education, lifelong – learning, healthcare and other social services.

The main topics for discussion will focus, but will not be limited to, on:

1. Ways of achieving economic independence and equal opportunities for Roma women;

2. Enhancing reconciliation of work, private and family life;

3. Promoting equal participation of Roma women in decision-making processes.