Open Society, a prominent philanthropic organization founded by George Soros, has announced a significant shift in its approach to funding initiatives aimed at supporting the Roma community in Europe. Starting next year, Open Society will channel its financial support through a new institution led by Roma individuals – The Roma Foundation for Europe. This move marks a new chapter in the organization’s commitment to empowering and uplifting the Roma community across the continent.
Before the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, European countries paid little attention to the Roma population. However, the expansion of the European Union towards Eastern Europe following the wall’s collapse brought a spotlight on the marginalized Roma communities residing in the region. This led to the initiation of the Decade of Roma Inclusion in 2005, a multinational effort supported by institutions like the World Bank, the UN Development Fund, and Open Society. Twelve governments pledged to develop strategies and allocate resources to improve the living conditions of Roma people between 2005 and 2015.
Despite these efforts, the Decade of Roma Inclusion faced challenges, including the reluctance of Eastern European countries to uphold human rights and minority rights criteria post-EU accession and the impact of the 2008 financial crisis on public spending, hindering progress in addressing the entrenched economic and social exclusion of Roma communities.
In response to the changing political landscape in Europe, characterized by a shift towards right-wing ideologies and increased anti-Roma sentiments, Open Society continued to be a key supporter of Roma causes, focusing on cultivating Roma leadership, advocating for rights, promoting education and healthcare access, and preserving Roma culture. However, as external funding dependency was seen to potentially weaken the accountability of other stakeholders, Open Society recognized the need for a new approach.
The establishment of The Roma Foundation for Europe signifies a pivotal moment in the empowerment of Roma communities. Led by Roma individuals, the foundation aims to bring a fresh perspective, expertise, and networking opportunities that align with the challenges faced by Roma people while leveraging their strengths and potential. Recognizing the demographic trends of an aging Europe and the Roma population’s potential as future workers and voters, the foundation views initiatives concerning Roma as investments rather than charitable expenses.
Moreover, the foundation seeks to harness the resilience of Roma communities, who have endured historical persecutions and cultural marginalization, without resorting to violence. By mobilizing these attributes, the foundation aims to contribute to Europe’s economic revival, ecological transition, and social cohesion, countering cultural polarization and fostering mutual respect and solidarity in societies.
The Roma Foundation for Europe does not aim to replace existing local initiatives or overshadow other entities pursuing similar goals but rather collaborate with governments, international organizations, businesses, and media to lay the groundwork for a rejuvenated Europe that upholds equality, justice, and rights for all its citizens. Through this collaborative approach, the foundation envisions a transformed Europe that embraces diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment for Roma communities and beyond.