On 24-25 January, a consultative meeting Realising the potential of Roma Youth participation held at the European Youth Centre Strasbourg brought together representatives of Roma youth organizations and network, national youth councils, and experts with an aim to create a "roadmap" for implementing the Recommendation CM/Rec(2023)4 on Roma Youth Participation.

Rui GOMES, Head of Education and Training Division, presented the state of affairs of Roma youth participation in the Youth Department and emphasized the urgency of supporting member states to address systematic discrimination faced by Roma youth in various aspects of life.

Nicolae RĂDIŢA, Rapporteur on Children and Young People's Rights in the Steering Committee on Antidiscrimination, Diversity and Inclusion (CD-ADI), explained ongoing intergovernmental efforts to promote equality and build inclusive societies highlighting the youth perspective.

 Representatives of the Roma and Travellers Team, discussed progress in implementing the Strategic Action Plan on Roma and Traveller Inclusion (2020-2025) and announced an upcoming Recommendation on equality for Roma and Traveller women and girls.

 Experts exchanged ideas on support measures, emphasising the roles of public institutions, civil society, and intergovernmental stakeholders. Conclusions and proposals will be presented to the Joint Council on Youth in April 2024.

 For detailed information on the event visit the dedicated webpage.