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Greek Peer Review: Integrated programme for the social inclusion of the Roma

Athens, 27 – 28 May 2009

In order to improve and develop a long-term strategy for the next programming period, the Greek government invited four peer-countries (Finland, France, Hungary and Spain) as well as national and regional Greek institutions and experts to comment on the programme. European representatives and national experts as well as other relevant institutions working on the social inclusion of the Roma contributed to the meeting.

A significant proportion of the Roma population in Greece deals with severe social exclusion which can only be overcome through comprehensive, organised long-term inclusion policies.

An “Integrated Programme for the Social inclusion of Roma” was first introduced in 2001, dealing with aspects ranging from education, employment, housing, health, sports, welfare and culture and was implemented until 2006.

An evaluation of the interventions was carried out in order to assess current policies and the situation of the Roma in the country. This study stated that the programme was not as successful as hoped, mainly due to the lack of proper funding as it was financed on an ad hoc basis as well as an inadequate management for its coordination and implementation.

Within the framework of this peer review, the following debates and lessons learned, among others, concluded the event:

As Roma social inclusion entails dealing with several issues at the same time, the proper approach is an integrated methodology, addressing a number of problems simultaneously. Enforcement of antidiscrimination and sensitising initiatives are essential.
National plans are not possible in all countries due to the central and regional division of competences.
Consultation and working together with Romas and their representatives is very important for achieving success in the implementation of policies.
Coordination structures as well as proper funding should be improved including the better use of European Structural and local Funds.
Other relevant issues discussed were preschool education, loans, Roma mediators, migration, etc.

Further information can be downloaded from the following link

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Greek Peer Review: Integrated programme for the social inclusion of the Roma

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