Steps that need to be taken to make free legal aid closer to citizens were among the topics of the meeting between the Commissioner’s team and representatives of the National Council of the Roma National Minority.

During the discussion, the issue of media reporting and the role of the Regulatory Authority for Electronic Media (REM) also stood out, as well as the responsibility of society as a whole in breaking down prejudices and stereotypes, which are also at the root of discriminatory comments present on social networks.

The meeting also addressed issues related to the employment status of health mediators and pedagogical assistants, as well as the topic of early childhood development. Special emphasis was placed on the need to increase the inclusion of children aged 3 to 5.5 in preschool education, which represents one of the most important ways to reduce inequality. It was emphasized that early inclusion of children in educational programs plays a key role in preventing discrimination and social exclusion later during schooling, as well as in life.

Topics related to legalization procedures, property registration, and the implementation of the “On One’s Own Land” program were also discussed, with attention drawn to the practical problems members of the Roma community encounter in these processes.

The Commissioner’s team highlighted some cases of discrimination and segregation, as well as the application of affirmative measures and their reach, with a joint message on the importance of strengthening institutional capacities and mutual cooperation to improve the position of the Roma community and ensure effective protection against discrimination.