From 7 to 10 April 2025, Brussels hosted Roma Week — a key political and social advocacy event organised annually around International Roma Day. This year’s edition took on urgency, as it came during a significant shift in the European Union’s political leadership and amidst growing concern over the lack of Romani representation in the European Parliament.

The event successfully brought together Members of the European Parliament, EU officials, Roma leaders, youth, and civil society organisations to strengthen Roma visibility in policymaking and reaffirm commitment to Roma inclusion. With a strong focus on political engagement, the week explored new pathways for Roma, Sinti, and Traveller communities — especially women and youth — to access leadership roles and influence decision-making processes.

A central theme throughout the sessions was combating antigypsyism and structural discrimination. Stakeholders engaged in meaningful dialogue on how to address these issues through more robust policy frameworks, improved monitoring mechanisms, and the promotion of intersectional approaches to human rights. Participants also advocated for the inclusion of Roma history and culture in school curricula as a vital step toward fostering mutual respect and understanding across European societies.

Roma Week 2025 also placed strong emphasis on digital inclusion and educational equity. By highlighting the digital divide affecting Roma communities, organisers underscored the need for targeted policies to improve connectivity, digital literacy, and access to educational resources.

In addition, the event spotlighted the importance of accountability in the use of EU funds for Roma inclusion. Discussions around Roma Civil Monitoring reaffirmed the need for transparent and effective use of resources to ensure tangible results for communities on the ground.

This year, the event also bridged conversations with EU Antiracism Week, emphasising intersectional discrimination faced not only by Roma but also by other racialised and marginalised groups. By doing so, Roma Week helped reinforce alliances across movements, broadening the agenda for anti-discrimination and equality within the EU.

One of the most moving aspects of Roma Week 2025 was its focus on transitional and restorative justice. Through projects like Jekhipen, participants reflected on historical injustices suffered by Roma communities and explored ways to embed remembrance and reconciliation into EU narratives.

Overall, Roma Week 2025 marked a critical moment in reaffirming the EU’s commitment to a Union of Equality. It brought renewed attention to the urgent need for Roma empowerment and meaningful inclusion, ensuring that Roma voices are not only heard but play a leading role in shaping Europe’s democratic future.