Roma communities are among the most vulnerable populations in Europe. In many countries of the Balkan region, thousands of Roma families live in deep poverty, facing serious social, economic, and humanitarian challenges.
The Balkan region includes Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Romania, the European part of Turkey, and Slovenia. In many of these countries, Roma communities continue to experience severe poverty, social exclusion, and discrimination.
A Roma family of turkish origin sits under an improvised shelter to protect from heavy rain in Eforie Sud, Romania, on September 30, 2013 before an annoucement by the Mayor on their case. Romanian authorities evicted around 100 Roma from a town near the Black Sea coast without providing them with alternative housing, prompting criticism from Amnesty International. The Roma families spent three days in a nearby field despite the cold weather until the mayor decided on September 30, 2013 to host them in an old school.
AFP PHOTO / MUGUR VARZARIU
Particularly large Roma communities live in Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Albania, where many families struggle with extremely difficult living conditions. In numerous settlements, access to adequate housing, clean drinking water, healthcare, education, and stable employment is limited.
Roma people across the region frequently face racism, prejudice, and social marginalization. Because of their origin and skin color, many Roma individuals and families encounter serious barriers when trying to access education, employment, and social services.
Roma children are especially vulnerable, as many do not receive adequate education, healthcare, or social support.
The International Social and Development Foundation (ISDF) is committed to providing humanitarian assistance and development support to vulnerable communities throughout the Balkan region.
Through its programs, the foundation aims to support Roma communities in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Romania, the European part of Turkey, and Slovenia.
Our mission is to improve the living conditions of Roma families, support children and vulnerable communities, and promote human dignity, equal opportunities, and social inclusion across the Balkans and Europe.
