On June 8, 2026, representatives of the Roma Women Fund “Chirikli” participated in the public discussion “Ukraine on the Road to Accession: How to Deliver the Next EU Enlargement,” held in Kyiv with the participation of European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos.
The event brought together representatives of the Ukrainian government, European institutions, experts, and civil society organizations to discuss Ukraine’s next steps toward membership in the European Union, key reforms, and prospects for opening negotiation clusters.
European Integration and Minority Rights
For Ukraine’s national minorities, including Roma communities, European integration means more than political and economic alignment with the European Union. It also represents a commitment to equality, non-discrimination, human rights protection, and broader opportunities for participation in public life.
Ensuring that national minorities are included in discussions about Ukraine’s future in Europe is an important part of democratic development and the practical implementation of European values.
Community Voices in the Reform Process
Participants discussed the reforms necessary for Ukraine’s continued progress toward EU membership and emphasized the importance of involving diverse communities in decision-making processes.
For Roma communities, this means having meaningful opportunities to contribute to policies that affect their lives and ensuring that the needs of national minorities are reflected in government programs and reform agendas.
Inclusion as a European Value
Speakers highlighted that European values cannot exist without respect for diversity, inclusion, and equal rights for all citizens. Equal access to opportunities and protection from discrimination remain fundamental elements of a democratic society.
For the Roma Women Fund “Chirikli,” promoting inclusion and participation of national minorities is an essential part of both European integration and the development of a fair and equitable society.
Dialogue for a European Future
Chirikli expresses its gratitude to the organizers of the event — the European Policy Institute in Kyiv (EPIK) and the Ukraine2EU Programme — for the opportunity to participate in this important discussion about Ukraine’s future in the European Union.
Such discussions contribute to a better understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with EU accession while helping ensure that the voices of national minorities are included in shaping Ukraine’s European future.
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