On May 19, 2014, representatives of the Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine met with representatives of the Council of Europe and the NGO “Roma Women’s Fund “Chiricli”. During this meeting, the following information was provided:
Deputy Minister Fedorovych N. V. welcomed the guests and emphasized the importance of launching the “ROMED2” Program. She expressed gratitude to Z. Kondur and L. Kobilyanska for their efforts in improving cooperation with the Roma population. Deputy Minister Fedorovych highlighted the need for Ukraine to adhere to all international standards, particularly those concerning the Roma population. She highlighted two crucial aspects:
One prerequisite for this approach is providing registration services at the place of residence, which is mandatory. The Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine has developed a quality registration system for individuals without a permanent place of residence. The Deputy Minister stressed that there are already registration centers in 21 regions of Ukraine. However, in the four regions with the largest Roma population, such centers are lacking. Therefore, the Ministry’s task is to establish effective cooperation with the leadership of these four regions to create suitable conditions for the registration of individuals without a permanent place of residence. Deputy Minister Fedorovych emphasized that proper registration is essential for accessing social services.
She also highlighted the important role of mediators in working with the Roma population. She noted that the Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine successfully fulfills this role. Moreover, she emphasized the need for training social workers to interact with the Roma community.
In terms of social services, the Department of Social Services’ Deputy Director mentioned that a comprehensive policy is being developed for vulnerable population groups. Amendments to legislation were introduced in 2012 to modernize and improve the quality of social services, including the inclusion of mediation services provided by representatives of the Roma population. The development of standards for social services was initiated, and while 15 draft standards were developed, 7 have been approved. Two main problems faced by the Roma population were identified: obtaining birth certificates and citizenship passports. The preparation of mediation standards will be based on the results of the “ROMED2” Program.
The Manager of the “ROMED” Program from the Council of Europe, Marcos Andrade, provided information about the new phase of the program. This included the preparation of two groups of mediators, the development of a collaboration scheme between mediators and social workers, and an emphasis on local-level activities. He noted the importance of coordinating with local authorities and mayors. Marcos Andrade highlighted that the project’s focus is on the local level, and informed about the program’s initiation by the Council of Europe and the European Union. He offered Ukraine the opportunity to receive funding for solving the aforementioned problems.
The head of the Special Representative of the Secretary General of the Council of Europe on Roma issues, Sixto Molina, emphasized the importance of sharing international experience and offered the Committee’s assistance with legislation. He suggested that Ukraine become a host country for the next thematic visit, an opportunity for exchanging experiences. He also emphasized that integration policies benefit not only the Roma population but the entire society. Additionally, he stressed the need to prepare and ensure employment for Roma mediators, develop strategies for Roma women (empowering them), and achieve gender balance.
For more information on the “ROMED” Program: http://romed.coe-romact.org/
