City of Novi Pazar - "Roma Viva – Bringing change in Novi Pazar” project

 City of Novi Pazar 


PROJECT TITLE: Roma Viva – Bringing change in Novi Pazar

VALUE: EUR 51,733

DURATION: 10 months

PARTNER: MHD “Merhamet – Sandžak”

BENEFICIARIES: 50 Roma children and youth from Novi Pazar, who mostly live in the settlements of Blaževo, Šavci, and Dojeviće.  The end beneficiaries include the wider Roma population in Novi Pazar, a mobile team for the Roma community, a Roma coordinator, a trustee for refugees and migration, the education system, and civil society organizations (CSOs) working with vulnerable groups.

This project aims to improve the socioeconomic position and cultural integration of the Roma community in Novi Pazar through educational initiatives, cultural activities, and youth empowerment.  The action focuses on preserving Roma identity and promoting cultural diversity, including children and youth from both Roma and non-Roma communities in a series of workshops and cultural events.

The project will organize 28 workshops for Roma and non-Roma children and youth to promote mutual understanding, tolerance, and the fight against discrimination.  Additionally, two major cultural events will be held to showcase Roma culture, aiming to reduce prejudices and encourage intercultural dialogue.  These events will involve local and national actors, including schools, civil society organizations, and local government representatives.

By actively involving Roma children in educational and cultural activities, the project aims to combat the low school attendance rates among Roma youth, reduce stereotypes, and foster a positive perception of Roma identity within the broader community.  Collaboration with local institutions and organizations ensures long-term support for the Roma population, contributing to community sustainability and inclusiveness.

Contact person in the project team: Adnan Bahović, project coordinator, MHD “Merhamet – Sandžak” (adnanbahovic79@gmail.com), Selma Ikić, head of the Project Development and Implementation Division (selma.ikic@novipazar.org.rs), Irfan Dugopoljac, head of the Local Economic Development Department (irfan.dugopoljac@novipazar.org.rs)