Deputy Head of Kharkiv Regional State Administration, Mykhailo Cherniak, discussed the implementation of the Strategy for the Protection and Integration of the Romani National Minority with representatives of an international organization.
During the meeting, Mykhailo Cherniak also discussed the issues of Romani internally displaced persons in the Kharkiv region with representatives of the International Charitable Organization “Roma Women’s Fund “Chirikli”. Furthermore, representatives of community organizations initiated the establishment of a working group within the Kharkiv Regional State Administration to address pressing matters concerning the Romani community.
“We closely cooperate with the active members of Romani community organizations and are aware of most of their issues. These include the lack of registration and documentation for some citizens, as well as concerns related to the education and healthcare of children,” stated Mykhailo Cherniak. “I want to emphasize that the position of community leaders plays a crucial role in addressing these problems. From the side of government authorities, we will do everything necessary to implement the action plan of the Strategy for the Protection and Development of the Romani National Minority.”
In turn, Becky Farmer, a Human Rights Officer at the Political Section of the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine, highlighted the importance of ensuring the Romani community’s access to social services.
“On behalf of the American Embassy, I would like to thank the regional leaders for dedicating time to addressing the issues of Romani people, including those displaced from the Luhansk and Donetsk regions,” noted Becky Farmer.
Deputy Head of the Interdepartmental Working Group for the Implementation of the Action Plan on the Implementation of the Strategy for the Protection and Integration of the Romani National Minority into Ukrainian Society, Zemfira Kondur, shared her perspective on Romani and government interactions.
“In order to have an active dialogue, it is necessary to establish a working group that would effectively address the issues of the Romani population. For this purpose, I suggest selecting an advisor to the Kharkiv Regional State Administration based on public principles,” proposed Zemfira Kondur.
According to her, the current main challenges among Romani people are employment, education, and social protection.
“At this moment, we have everything we need to engage in a dialogue with representatives of the Romani community and resolve emerging issues. We will definitely discuss the creation of a working group and the candidacy of an advisor with you,” responded Mykhailo Cherniak.
