Roma women, leadership and visibility on the international stage
The conference features a special exhibition dedicated to Roma women from different countries who have influenced national policies and initiated transformative changes within their communities. The exhibition highlights the strength of Roma women’s leadership, the importance of Roma advocacy, and the growing visibility of community-driven initiatives.
We are especially proud that Yuliia Kondur, president of the Roma Women’s Fund “Chirikli,” has been included among the Roma women recognized for their significant contribution to shaping public policy on Roma issues. This acknowledgment reflects not only her decades-long work but also the collective path she has taken together with the Roma community and partner organizations.
Thirty years ago, Yuliia Kondur founded the Roma women’s movement in Ukraine. Since then, she has continued to strengthen and expand it, empowering Roma women, young people, and local communities both nationally and internationally.
Achievements of Chirikli and the strength of partnership networks
Recognition of Yuliia Kondur at the international level is closely connected to the work of the Chirikli team, the network of Roma mediators, and partner organizations. Key achievements made possible through joint efforts include:
- development and institutionalization of Roma mediation in Ukraine;
- systematic human rights monitoring that contributed to the formation of state policy for Roma inclusion;
- support for communities in accessing documentation, education, healthcare, and legal assistance;
- advocacy for the rights of Roma and Roma women at both national and international levels;
- implementation of initiatives aimed at strengthening local communities, supporting Roma youth, developing women’s leadership and countering discrimination.
These achievements are the result of long-term collaboration, engagement of local leaders and the dedicated work of the entire Chirikli team.
Working together for the future of Roma communities
We express our gratitude to everyone who has been and continues to be part of this shared work. Special thanks go to our colleagues at the OSCE for their longstanding support, trust and consistent inclusion of Roma issues in the international agenda.
We also thank our partners and colleagues who actively contribute to Roma advocacy and community development:
Cristi Mihalache,
Natalia Duminica,
Rada Kalandiia,
as well as the team of the Roma Human Rights Center and other partner organizations.
Together we continue working for the future of Roma communities in Ukraine and beyond.