From 22 to 27 September 2025, the European Youth Centre Budapest hosted the study session From passion to action: A new generation of Roma activists organised within the Youth for Democracy programme in cooperation with the European Roma Grassroots Organisations Network (ERGO) and ternYpe International Roma Youth Network.

A group of 30 young people participates in the week-long study session, which is part of the long-term strategy of the organisations to empower young Roma and non-Roma activists as ambassadors for the “Decade to counter Antigypsyism”.

During the week, participants were provided with theoretical knowledge of what Antigypsyism is and what its consequences are in the daily life of youth from Roma and Traveller communities in Europe. Participants also learnt practical ways of countering Antigypsyism while using tools available to young people in contemporary Europe. 

The study session contributed directly to combating all forms of discrimination, racism and exclusion, including its structural forms. Participants are supported to stand up for their rights, as well as to educate others on the systemic racism faced by Roma communities.

The session contributed to the implementation of  Recommendation of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe on Roma Youth Participation and the ECRI Recommendation of the European Commission against Racism and intolerance, on combating antigypsyism and discrimination against Roma.

The CM recommendation on Roma Youth Participation aims to support Member States in ensuring substantive participation, representation and inclusion of Roma youth in all spheres of society and decision-making processes, and well as to combat structural racism. Participants will work on translating these recommendations into concrete actions and initiatives in the youth work field.

 For detailed information, please visit the dedicated webpage.