ROVA project – Monitoring of public policies for inclusion

The theme of our project is The monitoring of public policies that aim to promote social inclusion, with a strong emphasis on human rights advocacy. Our starting point is the understanding that human rights are universal, and any progress in Roma inclusion must be embedded within a broader struggle for justice, equality, and dignity for all. We recognize that lasting change requires not only policy shifts but also broad alliances—and therefore, our advocacy strategy intentionally builds coalitions with organisations working on various human rights issues.
From our previous activities—especially the Roma Civil Monitor 2021–2025—we have learned that monitoring and advocacy must go hand in hand. We also understood that Roma voices must be amplified through collaboration with other actors to gain political weight and visibility. This is the foundation upon which the Human Rights Coalition was built in 2025: a diverse alliance of 12 Roma and pro-Roma civil society organisations, rooted in shared values of anti-racism, gender equality, and intersectional justice.
The project is divided into two work packages:
WP1: Monitoring of Public Inclusion Policies
We will assess the implementation of the national Strategy for Equality, Inclusion and Participation of Roma 2030, focusing on the year 2025. The result will be an independent monitoring report informed by both qualitative and quantitative research, and enriched by field expertise from coalition members. A key chapter will focus on the programming and use of EU funds, highlighting gaps in Roma participation and proposing specific policy recommendations.
WP2: Advocacy for Human Rights-Based Inclusion
Drawing from the monitoring findings, we will conduct a coordinated advocacy campaign targeting national and EU-level institutions. Our approach includes stakeholder consultations, participation in advisory bodies, policy briefs, and media engagement. Institutions such as the Slovak Government Office, relevant ministries (education, social affairs, investments), the Office of the Plenipotentiary for Roma Communities, and EU representations will be engaged. Our goal is to ensure that future programming cycles and inclusion policies are shaped by Roma experiences and voices.
This project reflects and promotes EU core values—dignity, freedom, equality, and respect for minority rights. By linking evidence-based monitoring with inclusive advocacy, we aim to contribute to more democratic policy-making and greater accountability of public institutions. Ultimately, we strive for a society where Roma are equal actors in shaping their future.

Period of implementation: 1.1.2026 – 30.06.2027

Implementation group: Human rights coalition

Grant: 15 000,- Eur

Donor: ERGO Network – http://www.ergonetwork.org

ROMA CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS PROMOTING EU VALUES
ROVA IS AN EU-FUNDED PROJECT RUNNING FROM 2025 TO 2027, DESIGNED TO SUPPORT ROMA AND PRO-ROMA CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS FROM EU MEMBER STATES TO BECOME MORE EFFECTIVE, CONNECTED, AND RESOURCEFUL IN PROMOTING THE VALUES OF THE EUROPEAN UNION.