Through a dual field intervention activity (Frontal Learning and Mutual Learning), the project aims to implement an action designed to bring about a change in the relationships between the Roma people and the institutional context of services (public and third sector) in Roma Capitale, based on respect for human rights. For years, the European Commission has been pushing for integrative solutions for the Roma that are non-segregative and non-ghettoizing (such as camps), as these violate the principle of non-discrimination enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (2000/C 364/01).

Project activities involve the participation of 170 people, including operators, officials, and managers from Roma Capitale and its 15 municipalities, NGO operators, and 50 Roma living in informal settlements.

The expected results in terms of impact on policies and programs are:

1. The strengthening of anti-discrimination objectives and skills of both operators and Roma, against the prejudices of the “gagé” (non-Roma) and against the self-exclusion often imposed by Roma culture;
2. The progressive application of standardized reception procedures for Roma and other disadvantaged categories throughout the territory of Roma Capitale;
3. The creation of practical tools for sector workers to facilitate and improve their work with the Roma population (manual, online repository, learning objects, videos, documents in Italian, Romanes, and Romanian, and recommendations for improving communication and the relationship between the Roma and institutions).

The main purpose of the project is to encourage and support convergence between the Roma who use services and the operators working at the Department of Social Policies, Subsidiarity, and Health of Roma Capitale (DPSSS), in the Social Secretariats of the 15 Municipalities of Roma Capitale, and in the associations belonging to the UNAR and CESV (Volunteer Service Center of Lazio) networks.

The final objectives aim to produce a standardized model for the reception of Roma and other disadvantaged categories in public offices that is respectful of anti-discrimination legislation, efficient, and transparent, and to support Roma in an informed and correct approach to the public services they need.

Co-financing: European Commission, DG Justice and Consumers (€291,168.56)

Program: Rights, Equality and Citizenship (2014-2020)

Axis 3: Action to support national and transnational projects on non-discrimination and Roma integration

Type of activity: Training and cooperation of relevant professionals

Duration: 20 months (October 31, 2016 – June 30, 2018)

• Institute for Research on Population and Social Policies of the National Research Council (Lead Partner)
• Department of Social Policies, Subsidiarity, and Health of Roma Capitale
• ARES 2.0 s.r.l.
• POPÌCA Onlus

• Dante Sabatino (Researcher), Ivonne Citarella (Administrative staff), Alfredo Franco (Technical staff), Francesco Iannone (Technical staff), Eleonora Di Maggio (External unit collaborating for frontal and mutual learning activities).