In the Zakarpattia region, preparations are underway for the regional Action Plan for 2026–2028 for the implementation of the National Strategy to promote the realization of the rights and opportunities of persons belonging to the Roma national minority in Ukrainian society until 2030 (approved by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine on July 28, 2021, No. 866-r).
Carpathian Agency of Human Rights 'VESTED'" has participated in the discussion and development of the National Action Plan for 2026–2028, with its experts providing a number of recommendations regarding the consideration of gender-sensitive data, strengthening the component of implementing gender equality, and including measures to combat gender-based violence. Some of the proposals were taken into account. The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine approved the "Operational Action Plan for 2026-2028 for the implementation of the Strategy to promote the realization of the rights and opportunities of persons belonging to the Roma national minority in Ukrainian society until 2030" by order No. 231-r on March 12, 2026. Among the indicators in this plan is a reduction in the number of cases of gender-based violence, addressing the need to overcome gender discrimination, and providing for the enhancement of the competence of workers who assist victims, including those affected by GBV.
Currently, preparations are being made for the Action Plan for 2026-2028 for the implementation of the Strategy to promote the realization of the rights and opportunities of persons belonging to the Roma national minority in Ukrainian society until 2030 in the Zakarpattia region. In this context, the public organization "Carpathian Human Rights Agency 'VESTED'" has developed a series of proposals aimed at addressing the most pressing issues of the Roma community, particularly in the areas of gender equality, combating violence, access to education, and employment.
Why is this important?
Deputy of the Uzhhorod City Council and leader of the Roma community Miroslav Horvat explained: "Despite the existence of the National Strategy, the Roma community continues to face systemic challenges: limited access to quality education, low employment levels, discrimination, and high risks of violence."
Expert, head of the Secretariat of the Coalition 1325-Zakarpattia, and director of the Gender Education Center at UzhNU Mariana Kolodiy noted that “women and girls of Roma nationality remain particularly vulnerable, often facing double discrimination. Therefore, the proposed initiatives aim not only at the formal implementation of the Strategy but also at the real improvement of the quality of life of the Roma community in the region”
The first proposal concerns improving approaches to collecting information about the situation of the Roma community. This is not just about statistics, but about a qualitatively new format of research that takes into account the gender component.
The second key proposal is to include a separate task dedicated to gender equality and combating violence in the Plan. A comprehensive approach is proposed, covering several levels. First, information campaigns. These should be conducted both directly in areas where Roma live compactly and through the media. Their goal is to change established perceptions of the roles of women and men, overcome stereotypes, and form an understanding of equality as a basic value. Secondly, a separate emphasis is placed on raising awareness about gender-based violence. This involves explaining what is considered violence; what forms it can take; and where to seek help.
Thirdly, training is proposed for those who work directly with such cases - law enforcement officers, judges, social workers. This will make responses to violence more professional and sensitive to the specifics of the Roma community. As a result, such measures should not only reduce the level of violence but also create an environment in which victims are not afraid to seek help.
The third block of proposals concerns education, with an emphasis not only on children but also on adults. It is proposed to create opportunities for men and women of Roma nationality who, for various reasons, have not completed secondary education to return to learning. This includes: introducing evening education; developing flexible educational programs; creating conditions for combining learning with work or family responsibilities. An important direction is alternative education. This refers to the opportunity to acquire professional skills that are in real demand in the labor market. These can be vocational specialties, short courses, or retraining. Additionally, teaching financial literacy and safe internet use is crucial. In today's world, these skills are fundamental for social integration and economic independence.
A separate proposal is to support Roma youth entering vocational education institutions. Scholarships are proposed for: talented students; youth from families in difficult life circumstances. This decision has a dual effect: on one hand, it motivates youth to pursue education, and on the other, it reduces financial barriers that often lead to dropping out of education.
The fifth group of proposals aims to develop economic activity, especially among Roma women. This involves creating a comprehensive support system for entrepreneurship, which includes: training programs on business management; consultations and support at all stages; mentoring support; access to financial instruments (micro-grants and preferential loans). The particular emphasis on women is explained by the fact that they often face economic dependency. Developing their own business allows them to earn a stable income, enhance their role in the family and community, and reduce the risks of falling into situations of violence.
The last block of proposals concerns Roma children who are without parental care. It is proposed to focus on family forms of upbringing instead of institutional care. This includes: information campaigns on adoption and other forms of family upbringing; preparing Roma families for the role of foster parents; supporting the creation of foster families and family-type children's homes. At the same time, providing comprehensive support to such families (psychological, consultative, and material) is an important component. This will allow children to grow up in a more stable and safe environment while maintaining a connection with their own culture and community.
Detailed proposals with clear lists of actions have been submitted by the NGO CAHR 'VESTED' for consideration by the Zakarpattia OVA-ODA.
About the executor
Carpathian Agency of Human Rights “Vested” is a human rights organization from Zakarpattia that operates at the intersection of human rights, social mobilization, and access to justice. The organization has many years of experience working with vulnerable groups, including Roma communities and IDPs, and actively implements inclusive formats of assistance and education.
About the fund
The UN Trust Fund to End Violence against Women is the only global grant-making mechanism that is fully dedicated to combating all forms of violence against women and girls at local, national, and regional levels. To date, the Fund has supported 609 organizations in 140 countries and territories.
This publication has been prepared with the financial support of the UN Trust Fund to End Violence against Women. However, the views expressed and the content provided do not reflect the official position or endorsement of the United Nations.