The right of Roma children to receive education

Despite Romanian's accession to the EU, Roma children continue to be discriminated against and marginalised with little hope of completing their education.

In 2006, working in partnership with the village primary school, FARA established an education programme for Roma children living in extreme poverty. FARA's project in the village of Arbore in rural Romania  enables 40 Roma children to continue in state education by providing extra teachers and a suitable environment in which to study.

The majority of Roma families live in appalling conditions with no electricity or running water and FARA provides food, clothing and medicines for the children who are encouraged to take part in a programme of activities.

A major role of FARA is to be a voice on behalf of Roma families by negotiating with the local community encouraging social integration, education and improving their housing conditions.

Without FARA's help these children would leave school and have little hope for the future. There is still a desperate need for social integration of Roma families and to provide essential support in the struggle against illiteracy. With additional funding, FARA hopes to expand this vital programme to other villages where many children are still victimised.