European Roma Institute for Arts and Culture
ERIAC
ERIAC has a unique and single mandate as the transnational, European-level organization for the recognition of Roma arts and culture.
ID: 195856043027-56
Lobbying Activity
Response to Anti-racism Strategy
8 Jul 2025
The European Roma Institute for Arts and Culture e.V. (ERIAC) is the first and only transnational, European level organization dedicated to the recognition of Roma arts and culture. Founded in Berlin in June 2017 through a joint initiative of the Council of Europe, the Open Society Foundations, and Roma leaders, ERIACs mandate is clear and unique: to raise Roma self esteem and counter prejudice through the means of arts, culture, history, and media. We welcome the opportunity to contribute to the development of the EU Anti Racism Strategyit is both timely and urgent. Roma, Europes largest ethnic minority, have been present on the continent for centuries, yet they continue to suffer persistent antigypsyisma specific form of racismeven today. Despite numerous efforts by civil society, national governments, and the EU, discrimination against Roma is rising. The EU Roma Strategic Framework 20202030 correctly identifies antigypsyism as the root cause of Roma exclusion and the primary obstacle to meaningful progress. As a result, the framework treats antigypsyism both as a standalone issue and integrates its eradication into education, employment, health, and housing policies. However, current socio economic challenges and the growth of far right movements across Europe demand much stronger action. Existing anti discrimination laws are insufficient to effectively counter antigypsyism, and true socio-economic inclusion cannot emerge until deep-seated biases within European societies and institutions are confronted head-on. Based on our extensive experience, below the share several recommendations that, we believe, will make the EU Anti-Racism stronger: 1. Prevention alongside reaction Current policies rely heavily on anti-discrimination legislation, which is applied reactively after violations occur. However, not enough is done to challenge racism at its root through proactive and preventive measures. Prejudice and ignorance toward minority groupsespecially Romamust be diminished via initiatives that aim to change public perception and educate majority societies. 2. Comprehensive, transversal approach The strategy must be both comprehensive and transversal, ensuring it connects with multiple areas of EU policy, including other European strategies and initiatives. Racism affects all sectorssecurity, digital transformation, green transition, etc.so anti-racism efforts cannot be siloed but must be integrated across the board. 3. Data collection and monitoring A robust strategy must include strong data collection and monitoring mechanisms. It is essential that affected communities, particularly Roma, are involved in the ethical gathering and analysis of such data. 4. Civil society as partner and watchdog The new strategy should recognise civil society both as a partner and as an independent watchdog. Dedicated funding must be made available to support NGOs in fulfilling these roles. 5. Address AI bias, fake news, and digital prejudice The explosion of AI tools has significantly contributed to reproducing bias and spreading prejudice. For instance, AI-generated images are being used to stoke fear and xenophobia Effective responses require better-quality data, fairness audits, diverse development teams, human oversight, transparency, and regulation. The strategy must effectively counter these digital threats. 6. Innovative approaches via arts and culture Arts and culture are powerful tools to foster mutual understanding between Roma and non-Roma communities. They offer the most compelling means to showcase Roma cultural diversity and challenge reductionist views of Roma as a homogeneous target group. 7. Enforcement tools for reluctant member states The strategy should include mechanisms to act when member states lack the political will to effectively tackle racismensuring consistent implementation and accountability across the EU. We remain at disposal of the European Commission for further input and support in implementation.
Read full responseMeeting with Nicolae Ștefănuță (Member of the European Parliament) and European Roma Grassroots Organisations Network
8 Apr 2025 · Hosting of the Roma Week event
Meeting with Sabine Verheyen (Member of the European Parliament)
6 Jul 2023 · Roma History and Culture