On 8–9 October 2026, the first training session for advisers on ensuring the implementation of the rights of persons belonging to the Roma national minority (community) in Ukraine took place in Uzhhorod.
The event was organised by a joint project of the European Union and the Council of Europe, 'Support for implementing European standards relating to anti-discrimination and rights of national minorities in Ukraine-Phase II', and the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnic Affaires and Freedom of Conscience.
The training aims to strengthen the capacity of advisers to carry out their duties, interact effectively with state and local government bodies, and help ensure that the needs of Roma communities are taken into account when formulating and implementing state policy.
Twelve participants took part in the training. Among them were advisers on the rights of the Roma national minority and on national minorities as well as individuals seeking to become involved in work to protect the rights of the Roma community and who may potentially take up relevant advisory roles in the future.
The programme of the first training module combined an examination of national and local mechanisms for the protection of national minority rights with practical exercises. Participants discussed the rights of Roma as a component of human rights and the foundation for inclusive community development, institutional mechanisms for the protection of rights, the mandate and practical tasks of advisers, as well as approaches to building effective communication with local authorities.
Particular attention was paid to the role of advisers in establishing dialogue with the authorities and expanding their participation in decision-making processes. The practical part also covered engagement with the Office of the Ukrainian Parliament’s Commissioner for Human Rights — from identifying issues to responding to rights violations to defining practical steps for implementing relevant policies at local level.
This first training session marks the start of a series of training sessions for advisers. Subsequent training modules will focus on further developing their knowledge and practical skills required to carry out their professional duties, fostering inter-agency cooperation and strengthening the participation of Roma communities in public and administrative life.
Strengthening the role of councillors will help ensure that the needs of Roma communities are better taken into account in decision-making processes, the development of inclusive policies and the creation of conditions for the full participation and integration of the Roma community.
