“Greece responds to the European aim of inclusion and equality for all with the National Strategy for the Social Integration of Roma 2021-2030,” stated Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs, Miltiadis Varvitsiotis, speaking today at the two-day “South Eastern Europe Roma Child Rights and Inclusion Consultation”, which is taking place at Zappeion, organized by the General Secretariat for Social Solidarity and Fight against Poverty of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, in cooperation with UNICEF.
With regard to the first goal of the National Strategy, that is addressing the social exclusion of Roma, Mr Varvitsiotis pointed out that there has been significant progress, but more work needs to be done to tackle stereotypes. Referring in particular to West Athens, which is his constituency, the Alternate Minister underscored that “for the first time we notice coordinated policies, fruitful initiatives of the Ministries of Labour, Energy and Education, which make a difference in everyday life.”
Our country’s progress is also reflected in the periodic reviews of the United Nations and the European Union, underlined Mr. Varvitsiotis. Cooperation with other countries contributes to the identification of shortfalls and the exchange of good practices.
Lastly, summarizing the lessons learned from the problems addressed so far, the Alternate Minister stressed the need for the active participation of Roma people in public life, the role of education and empowerment of Roma women and the promotion of positive narratives about Roma culture, in order to eliminate stereotypes and prejudices.