Ensuring Roma political participation at local, national and European level:

Encouraging the Roma community's participation in political life at local, national and European level is one of the objectives of the EU Roma strategic framework 2020-2030. At an estimated 10-12 million, the Roma community constitutes the largest minority in Europe. Yet, in many countries the Roma are not part of the decision-making process, finding themselves in some cases deliberately excluded, intimidated or prevented from representing their rights and needs. Lack of information on the electoral processes itself, together with the vulnerability and difficulties presented by their segregated and poor living conditions, can also impact their possibilities for proper participation in the political scenario. The hearing will explore further the reasons behind the Roma's lack of participation in the political sphere, look into best practices and discuss possible actions that can help increase their participation.