Addressing Child Marriage in Roma Communities
Summary
Roma mediators build bridges between Roma communities and the societies where they live in order to empower Roma and increase their participation in society.
Target Community
Roma community in Antwerp
Equity Challenge
Roma have a long history of experiencing discrimination, persecution and exclusion. They are highly marginalized. Furthermore, girls are forced into marriages at a very young age, leading to domestic abuse, mental problems and physical problems (early pregnancies).
Approach
Roma mediation encourages constructive interaction between health systems (doctors, hospitals, mental health care), educational systems (teachers, school, educational assistants), housing (house owners, social housing), work (work programs) and Roma. The mediators encourage Roma to participate positively in society. Outside of the city, they are recognized as specialists and offer consultation and training on the subject of ‘working with Roma’ to other cities. Some of the mediators are women from the Roma communities who were also forced into marriage. They can communicate well with other young girls from the community, who feel safe to talk and learn about other opportunities. They conduct activities in three different levels: 1) Case/individual: Using engagement and negotiations, coaching and consultation with partners (police, welfare organizations, schools). 2) Prevention: Activities with girls,workshops in schools. 3) Policy: Creating awareness.
Scale
City of Antwerp: mediators are active in this city. Outside of the city, they are recognized as specialists and offer consultation and training on the subject of ‘working with Roma’ to other cities.Equity building blocks
Overview
More Information
More information is available here
