Supporting Development of Capacities and Participatory Approaches to Implementing Integrated Services in Disadvantaged Urban Communities, Including Roma in Romania (Social Inclusion Project)

Launched on 1 July 2025, the Social Inclusion Project in Romania aims at reducing social and economic disparities for marginalized urban communities, particularly those with a high presence of disadvantaged Roma citizens. Running until October 31, 2028, this initiative is part of Component 1 of Romania’s Social Inclusion Programme, managed by the Ministry of Labor, Family, Youth and Social Solidarity and is implemented by the Council of Europe in the framework of the Swiss-Romanian Cooperation agreement.

The primary objective of the Social Inclusion Programme is to deliver integrated social services including in education, health, housing, and employment, to reduce structural inequalities and enhance the well-being of vulnerable populations. Special emphasis is placed on combating discrimination, fostering intercultural dialogue, and building stronger relationships between Roma communities and the majority population. By shaping national and local capacities, the project aims to:

  • Develop sustainable partnerships
  • Pilot innovative, participatory approaches to integrated services
  • Strengthen the legislative framework for inclusion
  • Create common methodologies and standardized procedures for community support

Over the first months of implementation, the project team has laid the groundwork for a robust operational framework through:

1. Capacity Building

  • Central-level assessment carried out to identify training needs, shaping tailored workshops and materials for ministry staff.
  • Training session on understanding and Engaging Disadvantaged Communities, held in Romania in October 2025, brought together cross-ministerial staff to address poverty beyond stereotypes, intercultural communication, and ethical cooperation.
  • Training session "How to Work with Local Public Authorities for Disadvantaged Communities" held in March 2026, covered project cycle management, financial and procurement procedures, anti-discrimination measures, best practices, use of AI for project monitoring, and practical skills for enhancing local collaboration to better serve marginalized groups.
  • Study Visit to the Council of Europe in Strasbourg (October 2025), introduced participants to international human rights standards, anti-discrimination mechanisms, and best practices supporting the inclusion of vulnerable groups.

2. Methodology Development

  • Creation of a comprehensive methodology package covering case management, participatory community support, and beneficiary empowerment.
  • Development of practical tools for assessing discrimination risks, empowering beneficiaries, and guiding integrated service delivery.
  • Planned activities to include drafting manuals for coaches, evaluating existing procedures, and forming a dedicated working group for methodology standardization.

3. Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships

  • Completed mapping of national stakeholders, including ministries, agencies, professional bodies, and NGOs.
  • Establishment of cooperation protocols, with ongoing development of working procedures and partnership practices across sectors.

4. Legislative and Policy Support

  • Analysis of the applicable legal framework for integrated community services was delivered, identifying gaps and proposing actionable improvements.
  • Drafting legislative proposals for enhanced coherence and enforcement initiated, with stakeholder validation events planned for feedback and adoption.