8 April

REPORT ON THE CELEBRATION OF INTERNATIONAL ROMA DAY — APRIL 8, 2025
Organizers: Roma European Union and Roma Cultural Center JEKHIPE
Location: Sint-Niklaas, Belgium
In cooperation and support of: City Administration of Sint-Niklaas

On the occasion of International Roma Day, April 8, 2025, the Roma European Union and the Roma Cultural Center JEKHIPE organized a ceremonial program in Sint-Niklaas, with the strong support and cooperation of the City Administration.

The event was officially opened with speeches by:

Imer Kajtazi, President of the Roma European Union JEKHIPE

Lieven Dehandschutter, Mayor of Sint-Niklaas

H.E. Ambassador of the Republic of Serbia

H.E. Ambassador of the Republic of Montenegro

The speakers emphasized the importance of April 8 as a day dedicated to the struggle of Roma for equality, freedom, and dignity, and the need for continued joint efforts to build a society of equal opportunities for all.

Following the opening ceremony, a panel debate was held featuring:

Safet Hajvazi

Senema Mustafa

Nora van de Calluwe

Wouter Van Belingen

Lieven Dehandschutter, Mayor of Sint-Niklaas

The debate was moderated by Matthias, who skillfully led the discussion.

The main topics of the debate addressed critical issues facing the Roma community and society at large:

Discrimination and Racism: Participants discussed ongoing forms of racial discrimination against Roma and proposed concrete measures to combat prejudice.

Employment: The debate highlighted the importance of creating equal opportunities in the labor market, promoting vocational training programs, and inclusive employment practices.

Education: Special emphasis was placed on education as a foundation for a better future, calling for greater support for Roma pupils and students, including scholarship programs and mentorship initiatives.

Throughout the debate, numerous issues were raised and solutions proposed for improving the position of Roma within Belgian society, with a strong focus on the importance of cooperation between local authorities, civil society organizations, and Roma institutions.

The event concluded in a warm and friendly atmosphere with a reception where guests enjoyed traditional Roma specialties, fostering informal networking and the exchange of ideas.

Conclusion:
The event successfully promoted the values of mutual respect, equality, and inclusion. The organizers express their heartfelt gratitude to all speakers, debate participants, guests, and the City Administration of Sint-Niklaas for their active support and engagement, with the hope that such events will further strengthen community ties and continue the affirmation of Roma culture and rights.