Today, Valeriu Nicolae, a Romanian Roma, has taken up the post of Special Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG) of the Council of Europe for Roma Issues.
"It is a great honour and responsibility for me to join the team of the Secretary General," said Nicolae. "I very much look forward to working for the Council of Europe and in particular with the SRSG Roma Support Team and continue advancing the human rights agenda in the Council of Europe member states."
"Since 1999, I have been closely following the development of the legal framework and the practical work carried out by the Council of Europe, seeking for solutions for the social inclusion of Roma and vulnerable groups at the grassroots level. I strongly believe in working together with member states and in building strategic alliances will all Council of Europe partners to achieve inclusive and open societies that respect human rights for all." (more...)