The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 1 IINTRODUCTIONNTRODUCTION

A MonthlyMonthly PPeriodicaleriodical ooff TThehe RRomaoma IInclusionnclusion OOffﬁ ccee The Roma Decade iinn AAPP VVojvodinaojvodina no. 9, october 2011. 2011. no. 9, october

I CHOOSECHOOSE EDUCATIONEDUCATION

IInterview:nterview: MModestodest DDuliulić , PProvincialrovincial SSecretaryecretary fforor SSportsports andand YouthYouth „„OPENOPEN DDOOROOR FFOROR AALLLL RROMA“OMA“

Successful Roma: DDanijelaanijela BBogdanoviogdanović RROLEOLE MODELMODEL TTOO R ROMAOMA Y YOUTHOUTH

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 1 IINTRODUCTIONNTRODUCTION

The International Roma Decade which was offi cially launched in 2005 in Sofi a represents the biggest project on the international level dedicated to the Roma. The go- The Founder and the Published of the Periodical: vernments of central and south-eastern European coun- The Roma Inclusion Offi ce of the Government of tries (Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, Mon- AP Vojvodina tenegro, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Romania and Spain), in which around 10 million of Roma people are living at the economic and social margins of the society, have signed The Editor: this document. Duško Jovanović The main goal of the Decade of Roma is the improve- The editor of theme of the number: ment of the position of the Roma in fi elds like education, Jovana Davidović, phylologist - master degree employment, housing and health. Certain documents and action plans have been created, developed and carried out The Team: so far that have directly infl uenced and initiated the im- Dragana Dimitrov, professor provement of the position of the Roma. Marija Petković Ružica Nikolić The Republic of Serbia has also become the part of Igor Dimić the International Roma Decade, wrote its own Strategy Petar Miler, engeneer of mechatronics - master degree for the Roma Integration and accepted the action plans Snežana Dimić, pedagogist for education, employment, housing and health.

Correspondents: If we take into account the fact that the Decade has Roma Coordinators of APV been going on for the past six years and that, unfortunately, its results are not as visible and noticeable as it has Zita Farkaš, pharmachologist been expected that they would be, and that the Roma who live in rural areas are not that informed about the things Photographer: that have been done in this ﬁ eld, the main goal of this Vitomir Dimić periodical is to introduce the local, provincial and international institutions and NGOs to the activities which are Technical Preparation and Printing: being carried out in AP Vojvodina. The experiences in MAXIMA GRAF, Petrovaradin solving speciﬁ c problems in particular environments can [email protected] and should be used as examples for other environments for solving the same or similar issues. Circulation: 1000 Today, we can proudly introduce the “vojvodina models” we use for solving the Roma issues because this particular province has done the most for the integration Address: Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 25, of the members of the Roma national community into the 21000 Novi Sad society. Those are exactly the models and the information that we would like to present to the public and to follow and inform them about all the actions that are happening or not happening within the Decade of Roma.

The Team

2 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina GGIVEIVE YOURYOUR VOTEVOTE 1 2 ć Photo: P. Gavrilović Photo: P. Photo: V. Dimić Dimić V. Photo: V. ć ć Foto: P. Gavrilović Foto: P. Photo: P. Gavrilović Photo: P. ć Photo: P. Gavrilović Photo: P. The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 3 Photo: V. Dimić Dimić V. Photo: V. TThemeheme ooff tthehe nnumberumber 9:9: ChoosingChoosing educationeducation BBETWEENETWEEN THETHE SSTRATEGIESTRATEGIES ANDAND PRACTICESPRACTICES Since the beginning of the Decade, education is one of the priority areas of action. Problems of education of the Roma have become part of state policy, the Roma issue has entered the strategic documents relating to education, as well as general and sectoral strategies and action plans related to the development of Serbia and the EU accession process. However, the discrepancy between their goals and implementation in practice is visible and undeniable. Identifi ed a number of obstacles which can not resolve access appropriately. In Serbia, as in most other countries, Roma in the education system lacks reliable data. Although six years have passed since the beginning of the Decade of Roma is not yet established systematic methodology for monitoring the results achieved in all areas of the Decade, including education. Obstacles and problems is 5, 5 years (based on survey Discrimination data which included the 1508th There are many problems Roma, UNDP, 2004). The edu- The research results public and obstacles faced by Roma cational structure of the Roma mnjene of discrimination and children face and that the majo- is lower than the majority popu- inequality in Serbia show that rity of Roma children deprived lation and other communities, the discrimination of Roma of education and make it diffi - and lower education of women in Serbia and present to the cult. Some of them are: limited to men is even more so (World public are aware of (Project access to the education system, Bank, 2004). Roma women Support sporovđenju anti-di- high rates of attrition and early are the least educated group of scrimination legislation and exit from the educational sys- women, the percentage of illi- Mediation in Serbia, Ministry tem of a lower quality of edu- teracy of about 80%, with the of Labour and Social Affairs cation, too much involvement upper limit of four years of pri- and UNDP, 2009). The Strate- in special schools or classes, mary school without any quali- gy for Improvement of Roma over-representation in schools fi cations. Lack of relevant and Education in Serbia said that for adult education, exposure reliable data on ethnicity is a discrimination is a major ob- to various forms of covert or problem that is emphasized in stacle to equal access to quality overt discrimination, segre- most strategic documents and education for Roma. Roma are gation, lack of respect of the reports. It is hard to estimate subjected to various forms of Roma identity. Low educatio- how many of Romani children discrimination, such as undue nal attainment is most prono- never enroll in school, and how reference to special schools, unced among members of the many of them leave school star- unequal treatment by teachers Roma population, and it later ted, but it is certain according and school management, and became one of the main reasons to data from various sources even harassment or abuse by of poverty, which is transmitted that the number is very large. other children and non-Roma from generation to generation. Reasons for non-inclusion or parents. These are some of the According to the 2002 cen- after leaving school are many visible and obvious examples sus. 61.9% of the Roma have and varied and include fami- of discrimination of Roma stu- not completed primary school, ly and fi nancial situation, not dents, but there are those who 29% had completed primary adapted to educational institu- are not so open, and which are school, 7.8% had completed tions and high levels of discri- still prevalent. Teachers often high school, and only 0.3% mination against them, and the do not encourage Roma chil- was obtained higher education. lack of assistance for children dren to learn and grow, they It is assumed that the educa- to master the material. Exclu- have lower expectations of tional structure and the lower, sion from the education sys- them than other students, all given that the smallest number tem is just one indicator of the of which affect that they have of persons included in the list general marginalization of the poorer results. Discrimination of settlements. The average Roma community. against Roma is certainly one length of schooling of Roma of the main reasons why many

4 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina TThemeheme ooff tthehe nnumberumber 9:9: ChoosingChoosing educationeducation

Roma children are excluded for Roma girls in most cases social distance in children. from the education system and they have no right to make in- More than half of all children- why many of them leave scho- dependent decisions about the- respondents would like to have ol early or leaving school with ir education. While achieving your street in Rome, his school, low educational attainment. better academic achievement and especially would not like in adolescence often drop out to sit with them on the bench. It Why do Roma children of pressure patriarchal tradi- is associated with poor success drop out of school? tions and stereotypes that girls of Roma children in school, as do not need education, let alo- well as stereotypes of Roma as Regarding the reasons why ne what the higher levels. They dirty and rude. The most inte- Roma children drop out of high are expected to marry early and resting and disturbing result poverty are ranked and the cost take care of family and house- of this research is that there of education, then there is the hold. is social distance towards the bad behavior of other children Roma, even among the Roma. and teachers to them, and that Social distance towards the This data tells a lot about the do not speak Serbian. Most Roma children status of Roma in our country. of them want to go to school The data explorations So- It can be explained by the fact and thought that even if he ﬁ - cial distance and stereotypes that people from minority gro- nishes school will not get the about the Roma children of pri- ups in a meeting with a majority job. There are those whom the mary school in Novi Sad, con- of developing low self-esteem, school is far away. In addition, ducted within the project Inte- among other things, they leave one of the most frequent reason gration of Roma children in the their primary group, and thus is the lack of decent clothing, school system of Serbia show lose one of their social identity which affects very little conﬁ - that the Roma ethnic group still and move to some other group dence they have in school. As exists under which the highest that allows it to better social

For our magazine about Roma students speaks prof. Olivera Gajić in front of Philosphy faculty, University of Novi Sad :

The students - members of the Roma minority, are very well accepted in the Faculty of Philos- ophy in Novi Sad. Faculty of Arts is a higher education institution in the composition of our university to which, year after year, he enrolled the largest number of Roma students in primary, but also to master academic studies. It must be mentioned that the School Romology is traditionally organized by the UNS. This school provides students with an introduction to the science of language, literature, history and culture of Roma not only here but in the world. Experience in working with Roma students in this fi eld are izvanredna.Na UNS is highly competent instructional personnel. Here for years are working, very dedicated professor and professors who are dealing with Roma issues in different ways and with all types of angles (cultural, historical, sociological, educational, leksikoloških, media and many others). It should be noted that the University of Novi Sad, so far always been the meeting point of students of Roma ethnic group from various non-Roma and female students - members of different ethnic communities - a meeting of different cultures in the broadest smislu.Studenti Roma are very persistent and motivated to work when identify their needs, motives and desires. An important goal of the school in the Roma Decade (2005-2015) - formulated as providing access for all to higher education - is directed towards the intentions of the Bologna Decla- ration. According to the analysis of international organizations and institutions (OECD, UNICEF, etc..), Education is of strategic importance for economic and social development of the knowledge society. It is also a signifi cant segment of the campaign known as “The Millennium Development Goals.” To contribute to education in general productivity, innovation, democracy and social cohe- sion - it must be good quality, competitive, effi cient and, most importantly, available to everyone!

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 5 TThemeheme ooff tthehe nnumberumber 99:: CChoosinghoosing educationeducation

stutus. A large number of Roma SStudenttudent MMirkoirko KaldarašKaldaraš children declare the ethnicity of parents who aren’t Roma. LLOVEOVE FORFOR SSCIENCECIENCE In conclusion, the research is WWITHOUTITHOUT COMPETITIONCOMPETITION equal to only contact with the Mirko Kaldaraš is a student at the second year of Faculty of Scien- Roma children will enable the ces on the University of Novi Sad on the department of Chemistry. In in- reduction of social distance. terview for our magazine he talks how he decided to enroll in secondary In the speciﬁ c situation that school. He told us the story about his stay and research work in PSC makes the school department research station, which he considers as his most valuable experience. work to overcome prejudice is Also he shared with us his opinion how to help Roma to develop aware- easily solvable, of course, with ness of the priority of education. great commitment and effort of all those who can contribute to solving this problem. Teacher as one of the powerful agents of socialization, of course, in addition to parents.

Measures of Afﬁ rmative action for Roma students

As the most effective, in the process of integration of Roma in the education system

have proved Positive Action Dimić Dimić V. Photo: V. for enrollment in secondary Mirko Kaldaraš in the laboratory schools and students in high schools and colleges. * When did you know that diately loved the work in the In accordance with the one part of your life will be de- laboratory and that’s how eve- Framework Convention for dicate to the science? rything actually started. Other- the Protection of National Mi- wise, as a boy I could not ima- norities, Ministry for Human Love to the science, speci- gine it would be my choice. I and Minority Rights, together fi cally to chemistry, was born dreamed of being something with the Ministry of Education when I started medico-chemi- completely different and that is since 2003 been implementing cal secondary school. I imme- a driver of large trucks. While affi rmative action measures in order to maximize the number Dr Ljiljanom Vojinović- Ješić about Mirku Kaldaraš of Roma children in secondary schools. Number of Roma pu- Mirko is the fi rst student of the Roma population, with pils in 2003. year in the Repu- whom I had the opportunity to collaborate. Our cooperation is blic of Serbia was only thirty, not only at professor-student relationship. I tried to understand and in 2010. this number amo- his problems and needs and to help him as much as I can. It unted to 250th As for Vojvo- is clear that in all that I am not the most important. Simply, dina, affi rmative measures to Mirko is someone who has good knowledge with which he increase the number of fourth- came to college and someone who wants to learn and pro- degree high school. gress, while he is open for cooperation and dedicated on his works. When all these pieces conclude, success is inevitable. Jovana Davidović Mirko is a real proof of this and I believe he will continue in this way and in the future.

6 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina TThemeheme ooff tthehe nnumberumber 99:: CChoosinghoosing educationeducation Photo: V. Dimić Dimić V. Photo: V.

Mirko Kaldaraš with colegues in the laboratory my peers were turned to good alize my childhood wish and I My selection was not par- cars, I admired the trucks. The decided to enroll in chemistry ticularly infl uenced by anyone. direction for the drivers was second year. Parents, considering that they opening every second year and are not educated, they had no when I enrolled in high school, * How the environment re- idea of what chemistry school is there was no opportunity to re- acted on your choice? really about, but they supported me. The support of my friends is not lacking at all. One thing Roma from Africa in a research station is certain, thanks to the support of all people I manage to cope As a series of lectures in PSC really cost much, it is clear with all the problems. that there are people who are in much better position than I am. There were of course those are the best in its class, at your * Now you are a student of school and stay there that provide scholarships, your munici- Faculty of Sciences and Mathe- pality or school. Among the others I was also. Although the- matics, Department of Chemi- re are all highly educated people, open to cooperation with stry. What kind of relationship others, when I fi rst came there by itself somehow imposed the you have with your colleagues question What does a Roma in the research station? And it is and professors from faculty? quite natural if we take into account the general picture that Government on Roma. However, already after the fi rst lectu- Even in high school, and re, the question is simply evaporated, disappeared. There is a even now in college, I had no very interesting story about my fi rst lecture in PCS. One girl Roma colleagues. However, who was listening to my presentation, after the lecture, my with all I’ve managed to achie- colleague was approached and asked if I may be from Africa, ve good communication. I as- because for her it was amazing that one Roma was teaching to sist in preparing the exam to her. This is the example for me was very nice. my colleagues. So, I can say

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 7 TThemeheme ooff tthehe nnumberumber 9:9: ChoosingChoosing educationeducation

on the fl y. And that's the Proud on their friendship only place where such experience can be acquired. It is impos- During his education Mirko Kaldaraš lives in student do- sible even in college, because rmitory “Veljko Vlahović”. In the same fl oor with him lives even assistants, and professors Dušan Sivković, student of Faculty of Technical sciences. have a problem with the provi- In a conversation with him we found out that many non- sion of funds for their research Roma students judged Roma students solely on the basis stre- potrebih. So diffi cult is that we otipne image. Fortunately, most of them are open to them and as students have the opportuni- this is good way, according to Dušan words, it is possible to ty to deal with the research. replace the stereotypes true picture. It was the same for himself. With Mirko input shares for a year and a smile that spe- * Are there those moments aks in a friendly relationship, who built both equally proud. when you thought that you can not go forward? that relations with my colle- was from the area of pharma- agues are really all right. I’ve cy. I will try to explain it you as It never happened that I say never had a problem with this. simply as it is possible. As for now „I give up”. Considering, I’m also pride on relations with the medicinal substances whe- my character, it didn’t happe- my teachers. I would pointed ther they enter through pills ned to me that life puts me in a out professor of organic chemi- or injection into the organism, situation that I actually give up. stry, Dr. Nadežda Višnjevski, their concentration in our body It’s who I am, before I make a who in the last semester gave decreases over time. However, decision, I fi rst think carefully, me a chance to teach a lecture there are those diseases that re- and when I bring it never trans- instead her. Besides it there is quire constant concentration in gress. It happened to me and also a professor of General and their body. This is a problem to to all other people, that we be very diffi cult. For example, so- Inorganic Chemistry, Ljiljana scientists. In organic chemistry metimes I happen to have some Vojinović-Ješić, who really un- there is one group of organisms other problems, and simply can derstood all my problems and I called hydrogels. They have a not learn. But wait a bit, and am truly grateful to her for that. networked structure, and so are once these problems are solved, From high school I would po- somehow made to them can be sit down and learn. With some inted out the teacher Nadežda installed a substance and they of the problems that accompa- Višnjevski with whom I did re- will be under certain condi- ny me, I simply learned to live, search work. tions, to expand and leak or col- so I do not see them. Is directed lect and hold the substance. My to those who can not solve and * Your research is related idea was to embed into a hydro- that’s it. to your stay at the research sta- gel enzyme, which is part of a tion PSC. How useful was this protein drug, then to simulate * Who in these crisis mo- experience? the conditions tract and to see ments was your biggest sup- how the hydrogel will help to port? Before I started my inde- maintain concentration. My re- pendent research work, I went search was to demonstrate that First of all, these are my through a cycle of four lectures what happens to what we ima- mother, my former school and in PSC, where I had the oppor- gined and wrote, when all that the Offi ce for Roma Inclusion. tunity to become acquainted apply in the laboratory. It often What I was particularly sur- with some basic items related happens that what we imagine, prised when I entered the fi rst to research. First of all, I le- in the laboratory does not hap- year is that the director of the arned to use literature, which pen. And what then? Therefore, Department of Chemistry, Dr. is a necessary prerequisite for research is supposed to teach us Božo Dalmacija, offered to help every research. My research how to actually solve problems me about getting the necessary

8 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina TThemeheme ooff tthehe nnumberumber 99:: CChoosinghoosing educationeducation Photo: V. Dimić Dimić V. Photo: V. literature. So the support comes it is poverty. Process of edu- And I don’t think on fi nancial from all sides. cation it’s not short. It takes support. Roma are in very dif- twelve years ( primary and se- fi cult position, they are often * What is it that what leads condary school) and in the end in less mental conditions than you can not give up? the question is will you get the the others and because of it is job. When we speak about the has to be there someone to help First of all there is the love faculty, if it isn’t paid from the them. It would be very good to the chemistry. I would like budget of the state and that you that in each city exist offi ce to do that all my life. It is clear have to pay rent the fl at it is where Roma children can go to that if I did it well, and I will every expensive. Education is ask for help in education. From be able to provide a normal life investment in our country. If we the other side hired in those of- for myself, but I will not work speak about Roma community fi ces should educate and train only for the money. If I had to who didn’t even make to survi- Roma children with the purpo- choose between having to be a ve and without education it’s se to involve them in process of professor in the school and to very hard to explain them what education more and more. My engage in research would al- education is really about. message to young Roma is that ways choose the second. they never give up because they * What we can do to chan- effort will awarded in the end. *What do you think why ge this situation? education is not in the fi rst place for Roma? For that in the fi rst place is need education of Roma po- Snežana Dimić When I see all the sides, the pulation. The thing that is mis- Jovana Davidović main reason they don’t choose sing to Roma is the support.

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 9 IInterviewnterview

PProvincialrovincial SSecretaryecretary fforor SSportsports aandnd YYouth,outh, MModestodest DDuliulić OOPENPEN DDOOROOR FFOROR AALLLL RROMAOMA

Provincial Secretary for Sports and Youth, Modest Dulić in a interview for our magazine speaks about the responsibilities, activities and projects of the Secretariat which he leads. Also he shared with us his opinion about the needs when it comes to the process of Roma integration and who was given a key role at this area. The door of our secretariat is always open for members of the Roma population and we are willing to work more and more with them in the future.

* Present to us your Secre- tary-functions and performance?

Provincial Secretariat for Sports and Youth, within the legal jurisdiction, deals with areas which are from the most importance for Vojvodina. The primary task is to look at the interests and needs of citizens in the fi eld of sports and youth at the territory of AP Vojvodina and to the realization of these needs and interests of provi- Government APV Photo: APV Government ding the necessary funds in the Provincial Secretary for Sports and Youth, Modest Dulić provincial budget. One of the important responsibilities of gress and it’s including projects the population of Vojvodina. Of this institution is inspection of for young people in nine areas: course we had to start from the the work of organizations and education of youth, youth em- beginig and that includes the individuals in sports, which is ployment, health of youth, cul- target investment in infrastruc- a novelty compared to previo- ture and leisure, active involve- ture to create the conditions for us legislation and practices for ment of youth in society, buil- the sport (as well as excellent which there was only the con- ding civil society, volunteering, sports and recreation), and after trol of professional work in the mobility and informing young the fl ow follows the further fi eld of sports. I would now list people, environmental protec- upgrade of all sports. But in or- some of the regular activities tion and sustainable develop- der not to exclude the questions of the secretariat: program ac- ment, social policy towards you’ll mention some of the pro- tivities of the provincial branch youth and youth safety. jects: Paths of health, employ- associations, participation in ment of trainees in the sport, co-fi nancing events of interest * Which project you select improve sport in Vojvodina, Be to the AP Vojvodina, awarding as the most important? fair - start a game, a Web appli- annual awards, co-fi nancing cation eSavezi (www.sportal. projects that contribute to the This question is very diffi - org.rs), affi rmation of women’s development of sports, rehabi- cult to answer. I can not single sports. Now, we concentrate on litation and adaptation and etc. out any project as the most im- creating Vojvodina Youth Cen- In the youth sector it is certainly portant for the Provincial Se- ter, whose opening is expected an Action Plan for youth policy cretariat for Sports and Youth soon. This is a facility that will for the period 2011-2014, who- of all projects implemented be available to all non-govern- se implementation is in pro- with the great importance for mental organizations, youth

10 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina IInterviewnterview

information about the opportunities afforded by the state.

* What do you think is the biggest problem of young Roma in the process of integration?

I will give you an example. When we had a contest for the implementation of the Action Plan for Youth Policy in Vojvo- dina this year, we had a tender tasks that were related only to the Roma population, including the employment of young Roma. However, there was a Photo: APV Government APV Photo: APV Government very small number of the organization or there was a lot of Vlade Divac visiting Provincial Secretary for Sports and Youth non-performing projects. So, I offi ces, local governments and * Who were your partners will point out the need of incre- institutions dealing with young in these projects? asing their efforts, to educate in people for seminars, trainings, the general writing projects and round tables, and is particularly When it comes to projects to use every opportunity to en- suitable for multi-day imple- that are related solely to the gage in social activities. mentation of projects. Roma population, Roma sup- In addition, what we have porters are mostly citizens’ identifi ed in cooperation with * Do you have some pre- associations. Roma are esta- these organizations, it is the vious projects included mem- blishing them, also they are fact that their mutual commu- bers of the Roma population, creating and realizing projects. nication and cooperation is at and whether some of them were These organizations and their a very low level. Without the- exclusively related to the Roma projects are very important, be- ir cooperation and networking, population? cause it is a population that has system-looking, it’s hard to specifi c problems and needs. achieve specifi c effects. Also, Of course they have been the Roma population is not suf- included, both within the sport * What are your experien- fi ciently involved in the politi- sector and within the youth sec- ces at this area and how much cal mainstream, and it largely tor. In the projects we have sup- has been done on the affi rma- depends on themselves and ported in both sectors, which tion of Roma athletes? how they will engage in some means all members, including way to impose the political life the Roma population. At the - Experience in any case is of their local communities. same time, we support projects positive. However, there are not that are related solely Roma po- enough youth Roma organiza- * Does tha main role, ac- pulation, which means that they tions and they are not suffi cien- cording to your opinion in that directly and immediately im- tly trained in the development process have institutions or plement the Roma population, and implementation of projects Roma? with a view to resolving their in this area. All this can be over- problems. In addition, members come only through their work, The roles are equally im- of the Roma population are co- hiring, training, greater invo- portant, that the state and its vered directly and indirectly. lvement in social activities and institutions defi nitely have to implement a policy that applies

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 11 IInterviewnterview

Modest Dulić with journalists in Letenka

only to the Roma population, course we are open to every * What is the message and on the other hand is a ne- their initiative and cooperation. of the Provincial Secretariat cessary quality and responsi- for Sports and Youth to young veness of this population with * What are your plans rela- Roma? the cooperation of state institu- ted to the Roma population for - Members of the Roma tions. the future? population are important to us equally as everyone else, in all * What is your cooperation - When it comes to the segments. The doors of the Pro- with the Ofﬁ ce for Inclusion of youth sector, the Roma popu- vincial Secretariat for Sports Roma in the ﬁ eld of Roma inte- lation is covered by the Action and Youth are always open and gration? Plan for youth policy for the we hope to be in line with our next four years, concrete activi- policy and program plan in ac- - There is good communities and measures. In addition, cordance with our capabilities cation and agreement. We did the Roma population is one of in the future cooperate even not have joint projects, but of those placed as a priority when more. it comes approving projects. Jovana Davidović

Modest Dulić with associates on the ﬁ eld

12 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina IInterviewnterview

PPresidentresident ooff tthehe MMinicipalityinicipality ŠŠid,id, NNatašaataša CCvjetkovivjetković TTHEREHERE AARERE FEWFEW OFOF TTHEMHEM AANDND TTHEYHEY AARERE CCAREDARED

overall value and importance of tourism are wildlife hunting areas and hydrological values, primarily the accumulation Bruje, Moharač and Sot. A major contribution to cultural tourism are the archeological site of Gradina, Gallery and Museum Sava Šumanović Ilijanum naive art.

* During the presentation of census data, there are not

Photo: Šid Municipality mentioned Roma. How many of them are living in the municipality of Šid and what is their position?

In the municipality of President of the Munici- Republic of Serbian, and to Šid now lives a hundred and pality Šid Nataša Cvjetković the west and north with the thirty Roma, while half of the with the excellent cooperation Republic of Croatia. It covers total number of children are with the Provincial Offi ce for an area of 687km ² and has attending primary school. Apart Roma inclusion and local insti- 38,973 inhabitants. Compared from Šid, the largest number tutions for better conditions to other municipalities, Šid is of Roma living in settlements for education, housing and one of the ten largest munici- Molovin, Bačinci and Adaševci. employment of Roma. On this palities in Vojvodina. On its Most Roma have income from occasion, we talked with her territory there is nineteen settle- collecting and selling recycla- and learn how she and her team ments. The population of the bles, and one part is employed to do, but we fi rst met with the municipality is engaged mostly in the municipal utilities Šid. municipality to which it is the in agriculture, industries related president. to manufacturing, trade, repair * What has been done of motor vehicles and personal in education, employment, * Introduce us Municipality household use. According to housing and health care in Šid - its characteristics, poten- the census in 2002. year, in the order to improve the situation tials and resources. ethnic structure of the munici- of Roma in the municipality of pality Sid dominated Serbian Šid? The municipality of Šid population (77.6%), followed is located in the southwest of by Slovakia (6.5%), Croatia In cooperation with Vojvodina and Srem district (5.4%) and Ruthenian (3.4%). the Offi ce for Roma Inclu- belongs. In the north it borders Sid delivers the territory of the sion Government of AP with the municipality of Bačka municipality is 187,492 km of Vojvodina,the municipality Šid Palanka, and in the east and roads of different categories - has implemented projects aimed south with the municipality of national roads of the fi rst order at improving the living condi- Solin. In the south and south- and second-class national roads tions of Roma. On that occasion west of the border with the (regional roads). The greatest they purchased farms, enabling

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 13 IInterviewnterview Photo: Šid Municipality

President of the Municipality Šid, Nataša Cvjetković, with children

a fresh start some Roma fami- ages for children from socially with issues of social protection, lies. Employment of the Roma disadvantaged Roma families. there has been a major step in population has been realized in Offi ce for Roma Inclusion has terms of improving the situation cooperation with the Provincial provided 500,000 dinars for the of Roma, as well as in terms of sekretariat of Labor, Employ- implementation of action plans their housing. We believe that ment and Gender Equality. related to solving problems of this practice will continue in the * In the Šid municipal the Roma population. future, and that the members of budget are resources for the the Roma population to fully implementation of action plans * Who are your partners in integrate into the society of related to solving the problems this process? which are active. A signifi cant of Roma. For what it is spent? contribution to this goal is the Our partners are the Offi ce establishment of the Offi ce for The municipal budget funds for Roma Inclusion Govern- Roma Inclusion, which among were planned for the advance- ment of AP Vojvodina, primary other things, is also a place ment of socially vulnerable schools and kindergartens from where members of the Roma families in the municipality of the municipality Šid, Šid Health population can be informed Šid in the amount of 4.500.000. and Social Welfare Centre Šid. about their rights. dinara. This, among other - What are the plans of the things, includes free books, gifts Municipality for the future? for graders, free transportation Thanks to excellent co-op- and meals, and New Year pack- eration of institutions dealing Dragana Dimitrov

14 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina CCoordinatoroordinator fforor RRomaoma iissuesssues TTHEHE JJOBOB WWHICHHICH IISS DDONEONE WITHWITH THETHE HHEARTEART

Roma in the municipality of Bač past three years have involved in the communication with government and civil society organizations and anyone who seeks to radically and systematically solve their problems. Finally a door that is always open for them and know where the address is a person who is always ready to listen to each of their questions, and ﬁ nd the answer and the solution or at least try to ﬁ nd it. Coordinator for Roma issues Dragan Jovanovic has earned their trust.

His parents entrusted their nervous, and aggressive, we children’s education. He turn asked him to talk about situ- to when they have no money to ations at work, from working buy books and school supplies with people, that it was not ple- or pay a monthly pass. Since asant, so we looked at the other it očekuu to inform them of side of „medals”. „If for some measures of affi rmative action reason I am unable to meet the to help them to enroll in col- man who seeks my help, it hap- leges and universities. Turn to pens that he does not want to him when they want to further accept. Often Roma who want professional training through to get help get angry, intoxica- various types of courses and se- ted, they are often very aggres- minars, when they want to get sive and know that we are thre- a job or pursue a specifi c right. atening, but I can control it and Elderly, illiterate persons shall concentrate on it to help them obtain documentation for va- and still remain calm, „said the rious purposes. In addition, he coordinator. wants the attention of the coor- From the many ispričanih dinator, the Roma population is cases, we recommend one for ready to fi ght back. The coordi- Dimić Dimić V. Photo: V. which the coordinator said that nator fi rst found about the good Coordinator for Roma issues is specifi c: events - proud parents inform Dragan Jovanović „The most stressful case that him of the success of their chil- I have had so far is the case of dren - pupils and students, and diffi cult times, however I notice a seven-member family that for praised the work or if you rece- a smile on the face of a child or some reason came to the muni- ive a subsidy. It perceived as a an adult. This is the driving for- cipality of Bac. Until then, they family member. ce that encourages me to work lived in Sid, in an abandoned Coordinator can work just and to fi ght. I try not to forget factory. I’m not going to name as noble person, as witness co- that feeling every time some- this family, although I well re- ordinator, it is my heart, „I am one knocks on my door. „ member their name. A husband overcome by the nice feeling Since we know that the man and wife with fi ve children aged when you know that I helped who is in trouble and unhappi- four to ten - eleven years, „all is someone, and when in these ness often intolerant,, anxious, one other ear to ear.” As I see them now: the cool and rainy weather out of the van, the fa- ... Children and wife of the amounts of things from cars, which ther visibly intoxicated, aggres- are packed in a dozen bags connected together. Transfer them over your shoulder and down the stairs of the municipal building, where sive, ask me to fi nd his house, I sit alone. because it is a false promise Father of the family threatening me and shouting while expla- that we should come to Bac and ining that his municipality has provided accommodation for such that he will be here waiting for cases ... accommodation. Children and wife of the amounts of things

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 15 CCoordinatoroordinator fforor RRomaoma iissuesssues

from cars, which are packed in a dozen bags connected together. Transfer them over your shoulder and down the stairs of the municipal building, where I sit alone. Father of the family threatening me and shouting while explaining that his municipality has provided accommodation for such cases and that in any way I can to help them, but to ask of the Center for Social Work to provide them with ﬁ nancial assistance for travel expenses to

return the Sid. After a painful Photo: D. Jovanović and lengthy negotiations with the family, their hopelessness and consent of the offered so- dren to go to the right path, Roma people forward. lution, and „bargaining” with the path of education and work Down stereotypes and pre- social workers who instead of that helps them grow into wor- judice is a part of his job. The ten thousand, barely offered at thy and moral people. Particu- coordinator said that personal the end of eight, we go together lar attention is paid to children example contributes to non-se- to the bus station. Assist them who are poor ﬁ nancial situ- eing that the capacity of non- in carrying bags, because we no ation and whose parents are not Roma and Roma are equal and municipal car was not available. sufﬁ ciently interested in their that the only razllika among Buy their bus tickets and han- children live better than them. them in color. Sometimes this ded change of ticket purchased. „When my colleagues in scho- difference is absent, because The father was still angry, thre- ol to complain about particular there are many white-skinned atening, cursing, and then, sud- Roma children do not learn, do Roma. denly calm, smiled and offered not attend school or have a pro- two hundred dinars for coffee. I blem with discipline or hygiene, Support for remained caught. believe me, I feel called. Shame inclusive education Imagine, he offered me mo- as I was responsible and imme- ney, and there are so few, that is diately intervene and solve the Coordinator participated in not so much ... Now let some- problem. Imagine how happy the preparation of Local Action one says that Roma Roma heart and soul in misery, and poverty and proud of them when they Plan for Roma education in the are not so great ... Shared with praise. I. .. I love children and municipality of Bac, with the you and make a crust of bread. seen me somehow ... as parents, assistance of the Novi Sad Hu- „ „said a trembling voice. Every manitarian Centre and formed day, the coordinator conducts a working group dealing with All Roma children are mine guided by a vision of the role of this issue. the Roma population will beco- Current year by the Mu- Since the coordinator Jova- me an equal member of society. nicipality of Bac participated nović works as a teacher at the He knows that it is not easy to in the contest for the inclusive school in teaching Roma lan- change adults, because most at- education of Roma. This com- guage with elements of Roma, tention is given to children. He petition was announced by told us to do everything in his says that the younger the world the Ministry of Education and power to help the Roma chil- remains. They should lead the Science, Ministry of Health and

16 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina CCoordinatoroordinator fforor RRomaoma iissuesssues

DILS, providing services at the „As far as helping people effortless way to get material local level with the support of who pressed the heavy burden and ﬁ nancial assistance. the Government of the Repu- of life, I know that’s not eno- This phenomenon we sho- blic of Serbia, from the World ugh. Permanent solution can uld not be surprised and di- Bank loan, where the munici- only come when they are ap- sappointed if we bear in mind pality of Bac approved projects proached systematically, with the fact that Roma lived for valued at 35,000 euros. Project the will of local governments centuries on the edge of eve- partners are the primary school and state involvement. When rything that one could imagine „Jan Kolar” from Selenča, pri- fellow coordinators and I we do (training and education, health mary school „Vuk Karadžić” not have a job, there is a well- and hygiene practices, material in Bač and primary school Roma. „ well-being) and were in many „Aleksa Šantic” from Vajska, The Coordinator noted that cases victims of customs - role preschool „Kolibri” from Bač the Decade of Roma is still on- and position of Roma women and Roma NGO „Youth” from going and that the situation in was such that his wife was sold Vajska. The project is the Mu- many areas of the Roma has and subsequently used as a se- nicipality and the Project Co- improved, but consider the rvice and for the purposes of re- production - had a duty to bear children. From our ancestors were able to adopt behaviors that are not representative and that contributed to the construction of prejudice against Roma. You need to get away from habits that are rooted in the conscio- usness of the Roma population and extended hands instead of begging for mercy and a crust of bread, the same hand to make bread. Roma can do it! It

Photo: D. Jovanović showed and conﬁ rmed many of whose parents originate from April the 8th activities the tent, who are poor, unedu- cated and ignorant. They did ordinator is Mr. Jovanović. The most neglected Roma employ- not serve as a good example for aim of this project is to provide ment and considers it the most their children, who were edu- quality education for every girl important link in the chain cal- cated and employed, and today and every boy under the same led Roma Inclusion. the Roma intellectual elite. conditions for all. „Although it has been awar- Let’s recognize their pa- Implementation of this pro- ded grants for employment and rents’ mistakes and learn from ject has started and will last self-Roma, number of bidders them! We know it is not easy, until August the 2012th year. was small, and even less suc- but many indicated that it is fe- cessful,” said Jovanović. asible! We learn from the mistakes Responsibility for the em- of our ancestors! ployment of Roma took over the provincial institutions, but Dragana Dimitrov Asked if he is satisﬁ ed with not those to whom it is inten- the results achieved, the protec- ded. This is a clear indication tor of Roma from the municipa- that a large part of the Roma lity of Bac is sad: population still interested in an

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 17 EEducationducation EELEMENTARYLEMENTARY SCHOOLSCHOOL „ĐUROURO SALAJ”SALAJ” SUBOTICASUBOTICA

After the bombing of Serbia in 1999. , in Subotica comes a large number of Roma families from Kosovo. The ﬁ rst day of school children of these families spend in the primary school Duro Salaj. Many Roma pupils aged 7-13 years had never attended school, while the Serbian language rarely spoke when they were living in Kosovo. Since the school principal Mimice Andric learn which problems were children at the time she met and what is their position today.

* Although the national The problem is that children structure of diverse, many Roma are not familiar with the language children attend this school in which it takes academic clas- year? ses. A particular problem is that some children are not attending - This school year we have lessons. As a frequent happening from fi rst to eighth grade enrol- is that some families move fre- led one hundred and thirty-one quently, which in turn adversely children who declared that the affect the education of their chil- Roma. dren. The problem we are trying to overcome the additional clas- * What kind of cooperation ses and work in an extended stay. you have with the local Roma However, if children are absent NGOs? from school during the period Photo: S. Nikolić 2-3 months, the problem is very Mimica Andrić - The school has very good diffi cult solvable. cooperation with local Roma * Can you share with us the NGOs and Roma Educational * Your school is the fi rst in characteristics of your school, Centre with its director Stevan the city that received the Roma the number of students and the Nikolić. They were helpful to us pupils. As such, if the school had national structure of your stu- especially in the time when in a participation in projects and dents? our school came a large number seminars, and they are related to of Roma children. It is necessa- inclusion? Đuro Salaj Primary School ry to have co-workers from the in Subotica is working in two community because of overca- facilities, where teaching takes ming barriers is important that Primary School Đuro Salaj, place in Serbian and Hungarian as many subjects following the in the process of Roma inclusion languages. The school is propo- success of students. In this way in education, was part of a pro- znatljiva for its openness and un- looks at the situation realistical- ject funded by the Children or- derstanding for all children, irre- ly and can respond in a timely ganizations all with the help of spective of mutual differences. manner. Roma Educational Cen- NGO Roma Education Center. This school year we have 445 tre. the organization to whom we The school has received funds students who were divided into can always rely on. Otherwise, to expand the capacity of exten- 24 departments, of which 16 in we are together in the Team for ded stay. She also had a part in Serbian, and 8 in Hungarian. The inclusion of Roma children, the education for all, a bridge with national structure of students is school administration Sombor. a group from Belgrade, partici- very diverse. It is important that pated in the seminar which was our school was the fi rst in the *In the process of inclusion organized on the topic of parti- city that received a large number Roma children you probably had cipation of parents from mino- of Roma children who were di- a lot of problems, mention some rity and marginalized groups in splaced from Kosovo, even from of theme and tell us how you re- curricular and extracurricular the territory of other schools. solve them? activities.

18 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina EEducationducation

* Does the school have a pe- school is obliged to accept all problems that permeate overco- dagogical assistant, and what is children. me if children regularly atten- their contribution to the school ding school. It is very important and Roma? * Share with us some of your and educating parents about how memories or experience that is important it is that their child is - Since 2005/2006. school related to the work with Roma educated, to ensure their future year at this school there is a pe- children? existence and social status. Mo- dagogical assistant, who works stly male Roma children com- at an extended stay. Pedagogi- - During the school year plete primary school and conti- cal assistants through their work 2002/2003. was moved to Subo- nue their education in secondary made the greatest contribution in tica large number of Roma fami- schools, and unfortunately not extended stays, as well as streng- lies, mostly from Kosovo. There the case in girls. In recent years thening cooperation with parents was about 60 students who were there have been cases that girls in the ﬁ eld. They Roma children aged 7 to 13 years and who have are holders of diplomas and the see some kind of security and never attended school, and many Wolves continue their educa- trust. have been with poor knowledge tion. of Serbian. In cooperation with representatives of the Ministry * Share with us the future and with the support of NGOs plans of the school, and to refer were formed in two sections. to the process of Roma Inclu- Some children are still in the sion? school year and was integrated into other departments, but that - Plans Primary School Đuro everyone was given the opportu- Salaj will apply to provide maxi- Photo: S. Nikolić nity to do so whenever they wish. mum assistance to students in or- Older students were allowed to der to improve their success. As * Would you be able to point attend primary school until they this school year enrolled a do- out the two Roma students who are 17 years. Some have comple- zen students from abroad, with are differ from others by their ted only the fourth grade, while poorer knowledge of Serbian school achievements? Any pro- others continued their education language, teachers will provide blems they encounter? at a school for adult education. additional support in learning By the students was a desire to the language in extracurricular - Some Romani children keep the department in which activities. The school will work were, in addition to primary classes listening to a Roma. As to strengthen its own capacities, school, ended simultaneously the class left with only nine stu- continuous professional deve- and lower music school. They dents, we were unable to do so, lopment, and participation in va- are winners of major awards at and there were pressures that all rious projects. home and abroad. These children children are integrated, not se- This elementary school se- are holders of degrees or Wolves gregated. Is that the reason or rves as an example of good prac- signiﬁ cant awards in competi- cause, I do not know, but 6 girls tice that tells how to organize tions organized by the Ministry after sixth grade, stopped co- to help students when there are of Education and Science Repu- ming to school. situations that the education sys- blic of Serbia. All students have tem could not have foreseen. In- maximum understanding and * From your experience as clusion, which was introduced in support from employees, espe- a teacher, so the situation regar- the school, gave the results. Stu- cially students who are good ding the inclusion of Roma chil- dents, even though the legion on students. In the beginning was dren could be improved? several grounds, with openness the outcry from parents against to the application of innovative Roma children, the school they - From the point of edu- methods in teaching, they got a made it clear that everyone has cational work, the process of school where all are welcome. the right to education and that Roma Inclusion to improve the Ružica Nikolić

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 19 EEducationducation PPROJECTROJECT AALLLL DDIFFERENT,IFFERENT, ALLALL EQUALEQUAL

The Secretariat is satisﬁ ed, it can make a contribution, that he fully realized. My personal desire is to not only these three schools, but all elementary schools in Vojvodina, while the ultimate goal of such projects, no longer needed, said Jegeš.

Inclusive education- European value Photo: APV Government APV Photo: APV Government Danijela Korac-Mandic in- Representatives of the project troduced the project partners on Humanitarian Centre of Provincial Secretary of Educa- the project and its objectives to Novi Sad, in collaboration with tion, Administration and Na- the guests. She said that inclu- the Secretariat of Education, tional Union, Danijela Korac- sion means reducing all barriers Administration and National Mandic, program coordinator to education for all students, as Union, presented at 30th of Au- of the Humanitarian Centre of well as providing quality edu- gust, in the press hall of the Go- Novi Sad and representatives cation for every student on equ- vernment of AP Vojvodina, the from primary schools from Be- al terms. project „All different, all equal”, čej and Apatin. She emphasized that inclu- funded by the European Union sive education is one of the va- Delegation of the Republic of Inclusion of Roma pupils lues of the EU, which promo- Serbia, within the project Sup- tes anti-discrimination, cultural port to civil society. It is envisa- At the beginning of the diversity and respect for others, ged that the project is one year, exhibition, Jegeš has stressed and as such has a direct impact from 29 June, to 29 June next that one of the basic problems and encourages the inclusion year, aiming to encourage the of the educational system of of socially disadvantaged and creation of an inclusive culture, inclusion of Roma students. other marginalized groups in policy and practice in elemen- Also announced was that the our society. tary schools in Vojvodina, to project Inclusion of Roma stu- Inclusive education can all children, regardless of sex / dents in secondary schools will become a reality in our educa- gender, disability, social or eth- continue, so will this fall, three tion system only if the change nic origin, have equal access to hundred eighty-Roma students in school culture, policies and education. This, as mentioned, receive a scholarship. Deputy practices in this regard, said contributes creating an ena- Secretary for Education, Admi- Korac. bling non-discriminatory envi- nistration and National Union She also stated that there ronment in Vojvodina, respect expressed satisfaction with the are grounds in law and social the difference of other cultures, results of the inclusion of Roma reforms that help introduce the languages, social origin, natio- students in secondary schools, model of inclusive education. nality and religion. The project high schools and colleges, but Law on the Foundations of is being implemented in three not inclusion in primary scho- Education, adopted two years elementary schools, Samu Mi- ols. ago, has brought new rules for halj in Becej, Zarko Zrenjanin This project is worth at- the promotion of equality and in Apatin and Vuk Karadzic in tention, because it explores the justice, under which enables Novi Sad. About this, on event possibilities of how to solve the easy participation of margina- spoke dr Zoltan Jegeš, Deputy inclusion in primary schools.

20 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina EEducationducation

as a partner in this project. Bar- ta said that the teaching is done in this school, on Serbian, and on Hungarian, and that students of this school come from najra- zličitijh environment, and the school as such, in her opinion, a good choice to participate in this project . Finally she added that this project is a good basis for creating an inclusive culture, but a period of one year is not sufﬁ cient to fully realize this, and after the project will Photo: APV Government APV Photo: APV Government continue this school-building Representatives of the project with journalists activities are open to all scho- lized groups in the education awareness of young people to ols. system. accept diversity as a resource in Representative Elementary However, to her knowledge education. School Zarko Zrenjanin from in practice, an inclusive model Apatin on behalf of his com- of education is related only to The word of partner schools pany welcomed the project and individual cases, that students expressed satisfaction, which who need additional support in Klara Kulin Barta, Director is part of it. The project will, education. of Primary School Samu Mihalj in the opinion of its collective, The project, she says, con- from Bečej, welcomed the par- students and parents provide tributes to the development ticipants on behalf of the col- important lessons, how to live plans of inclusive education in lective of its schools and than- together and respect each other. targeted schools, capacity bu- ked the Humanitarian Centre of Jovana Davidović ilding of school staff, pupils Novi Sad on trust, they pointed and parents, as well as raising out, when they were accepted IInclusivenclusive cultureculture aandnd ggentlerentler fformorm ooff iinclusionnclusion

What will be done to the worst forms of inclusion, in the sense of individual of individual plans, given the number of negative experiences so far on this issue? - Danijela Korac-Mandic: With respect to individual plans, according to our knowledge, schools have formed teams to inclusive education. These teams have undergone the necessary training. This is our project does not address specifi cally the vision of inclusion, but is primarily engaged in an inclusive culture. We want inclusion becomes an integral part of the educational system, to think about it in a comprehensive and broader way. Working with students who need additional support is only a part of this process. We will try to further motivate and people involved in inclusive education in these schools in order to contribute to achieving its goals. - dr Zoltan Jegeš: We have a problem with the inclusion, because under this term usually means those cases when a child is in such condition, that is absolutely not able to attend classes. This project includes one fl at softer inclusion, when there is no physical interference with the students, but in terms of educational defi ciencies or bring moral principles. This will build a general culture of inclusion, which is missing in our society. The School for children with special needs that exist in our country, work top specialists, and in my opinion should not be abolished. They should continue to work with diffi cult cases and situations.

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 21 EEmploymentmployment CCHANCESHANCES FORFOR BOTHBOTH SIDESSIDES U Srbiji više od 20.000 osoba sa invaliditetom nema posao, te im nove zakonske odredbe daju mogućnost da lakše dođu do zaposlenja.

In Serbia, more than 20,000 much better results when it co- therefore increase your chances people with disabilities are mes to hiring people with disa- of getting a job. unemployed, and their new pro- bilities, compared to the period Executive Director of the visions make it possible to easily before that, thanks to the quota Center for Independent Living obtain employment. system, and a package of measu- of Persons with Disabilities Ser- Law on Vocational Rehabi- res for employment of persons bia Momcilo Stanojevic says: litation and Employment of Di- with disabilities. sabled Persons, adopted in May In 2010. and 2011. , in dif- 2009. year, requires employers ferent measures of vocational to a certain number of employ- rehabilitation programs to en- ees must also employ a disabled courage employment of persons person, yet their state aid by pro- with disabilities, included appro- viding various subsidies. ximately 6,000 people with disa- The law provides that an em- bilities to work while there was ployer who has more than twen- over 5,000. This is signifi cantly ty and less than fi fty employees, higher than in the period before are obliged to employ one person the Act comes into force. Photo: Media center with a disability. An employer In 2011. year we have a bud- Momčilo Stanojević who has more than fi fty and less get fund of 800 million dinars than one hundred employees, is for a variety of programs to en- -Has grown interested per- required to employ two persons courage employment of persons sons with disabilities and em- with disabilities, as well as to with disabilities. At this point ployers, as a result of quality. provide a job for every next fi fty we have approximately 20,000 Employers who have not yet da- employees. unemployed people with disabi- red, still thinking, should be the They need professional qu- lities. eighth and to enter into the em- alifi cations If we look at the level of ployment of persons with disabi- education of persons with disa- lities and people with disabilities Director of the National Em- bilities, visible, and disturbing, acquire that there is someone on ployment Mediation Employ- that no professional qualifi ca- the other hand, who is waiting ment Dragan Djukic said on em- tions about 50%, and thus their for them and gives them hands, chances of getting a job or less. and they are expected quality We will in this and next year, in work, and who provides them collaboration with partners, par- with all the requirements to be ticularly with employers and or- able to demonstrate and show ganizations of persons with disa- their capacities. bilities, to make further efforts to Active programs are em- variety of educational programs ployed sixty-fi ve people from as quality as possible when it fi ve cities in which the coalition comes to people with disabili- is. Our interest is to accelerate ties. I think that the Ministry of the employment of persons with Photo: Media center Education had nothing to say on disabilities and those who have Dragan Đukić the subject, modern design in a dilemma and are considering terms of retraining and upgra- whether to hire them, agrees that ployment of disabled persons: ding, which would be handicap they decide to take that step. „ - Upon entry into force of accessible, so that together we this Act, have been achieved raised the level of education, and

22 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina EEmploymentmployment

CCompletedompleted nneedseeds

Marko Milanovic, a researcher at the Center for Independent Living of Persons with Disa- bilities, presented the results of our research concerning the satisfaction of employers or persons with disabilities. - Employers in 86% of satisﬁ ed or they are completely satisﬁ ed with the work performance of persons with disabilities. The results of research on this topic are as follows: Do people with disabilities can be adapted to conditions in an open economy? - A total of 88% of employers think that people with disabilities can do it and that it achieves.

* Do you intend to continue to employers hiring people with disabilities? - Approximately 70% of employers give an afﬁ r- mative answer, while 15% are still not thinking on the subject.

* Do employers have a paternalistic attitude towards people with disabilities? - The answer is negative, because in one third of Photo: Media center ﬁ rms has been a ﬂ uctuation Marko Milanović of people with disabilities, there was a cancellation, or termination of employment. Milanovic concludes: „According to the responses of employers, we can see that employees have towards people with disabilities exactly the same relationship as the other employees and that they expect the same as any other employees. In this way, disabled people earn their pay.

Research conducted among people with disabilities like bears. questions and answers:

* What do you think people with disabilities of working conditions? - Prilagođenošću job satisfaction was 93% of respondents, 86% thought that psychosocial conditions that are important for personal development, good, 94% think that employment had improved their living standards and 70% of people believe that the opportunities in the labor market better than before.

The ﬁ ndings, conducted among people with disabilities, saying that most people with disabilities working very hard physical labor. However, they are still satisﬁ ed.

Petar Miler

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 23 MMediaedia RROMAOMA IINN PUBLICPUBLIC

The Assembly of AP Vojvodina in mid-October of this year, held a regional conference „Roma in public.” The conference is part of the regional project „Roma in public,” which takes place simultaneously in several countries: the Republic of Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia.

The project is a non-govern- In front of the Novi Sad cal in the fact that, unfortunately, mental organization „Transi- School of Journalism, we talked the neo-liberal approach where tions” from the Czech Republic, with prof. Dr. Dubravka Valić: information goods, contributed with the support of Sarajevo „Private capital constantly to the highly developed demo- „Media Center”, the Roma infor- attacks the public service, as it cratic countries, democracy is mation center, Macedonian Insti- deems unfair competition, which declining. People do not go over tute for Media and the Novi Sad is not true. Public services are in to the polls, do not want to exer- School of Journalism. public interests. A responsible cise their right and responsibility The project is aimed at the government must help the public for their representatives. I would like to invite to Jurgen Habermas, that most of you know as one of the most famous theorists of society, media, public, etc., who three years ago published a huge essay in which he explained and required, he asked that if Europe wants to continue the democra- tic through, it must begin to form and print public service, and that gave statistical data and philo- sophical data, and arguments, in which he showed that the growth of capital in the media, the media exits the public interest, and you generally can not be sure that the information which is published Photo: V. Dimić Dimić V. Photo: V. by spinovana capital or not spi- Visitors novana of certain centers of po- countries where it is implemen- interest, if not otherwise, then at wer. I will quote, but I will not ted improve media coverage of least the legislature. So irrespon- say the source, because I have a Roma communities. The aim of sible state will contribute to pu- right to do so under the Law on this conference is the presenta- blic services die a natural death, Public Information, who’s the tion and critical review of the which is the least painful way of other day, in a communication work of Roma media in the We- dying. But it seems to me that we poluzvaničnoj said this: „It is stern Balkans, especially in Ser- still won’t wait. Increases in the the simplest, as a politician - any bia, Bosnia and Macedonia. The world of public service, now the- word on the election campaign - conference offered a possible re, according to some recent data to come to terms with the priva- model for future development from 2009th year is somewhere te media owners. „ We all know of Roma media, whose survival around eighty-nine in the world, that the easiest way to make a is crucial for the visibility of the do not grab me quite concerned, deal with the owner of the media, Roma community in public, as because this variable category. ﬁ rst because it is cheaper, and se- well as models of changing pu- What I ﬁ nd most interesting is cond, there are no steps which blic awareness on the status and that media professions and scien- now need to get around, pay for, needs of Roma. ce are becoming increasingly vo- so you can publish whatever you

24 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina MMediaedia

„We have no one show that dia. Unfortunately, I can not talk covers the issue of national mi- about these things, not about this norities. Thanks to the two pro- as my colleague spoke earlier, grams that are currently working we have a young staff who now on the radio and VH1 RTRS, we communicates with the media, have limited time to cover only a and to have maybe a little impro- matter of national minorities. We ved communication with the me- can not say that we have some dia. „Media Institute sign” and programs, television or radio, „Media Center” are in the past which are the languages of na- few years have managed to ma- tional minorities. I feel very poor intain various training courses, and somehow very inconvenient to try to create at least some staff when you need to say that in Bo- in the NGO sector, and basic In- snia and Herzegovina, we have formation By that we can expand

Poto: V. Dimić Dimić V. Poto: V. only ten students, I was so glad along with the media. Prof. dr Dubravka Valić to have you here three hundred We had the opportunity to students, a word for me, for Bo- talk with them, get one of the want. Perhaps this is not good I snia and Herzegovina. We do not frequencies, however, what con- said, but unfortunately it is a fact have Roma journalists, who can stitutes a problem to us all, is in the Balkans, more in Europe, work in public services, becau- money, and it is unsustainable. not to speak to media in there se unfortunately, this is the fact Unfortunately, the story of the countries. Citizens are becoming that the educational structure of Romani language in Bosnia and more aware. Media theory and Roma in Bosnia and Herzegovi- Herzegovina is such that I can practice are becoming very awa- na perhaps the worst of the en- say that a very small percentage re of that, everything is louder tire region, and I know, because of Roma in Bosnia and Herzego- commitment to strengthening your secretary was in Sarajevo a vina speak Romani. Unfortuna- public service, just look at all few days ago, and she said that tely, we do a lot of work ahead the European media document of in Serbia have about a thousand and negotiations with public in- the Council of Europe. In all of students. I can now say that our stitutions, with public services, these documents is line: Urgent experience in the last few years, how to change this situation. must strengthen the power of because I come here in front of Unfortunately, we are far be- public service, because the in- the „Roma information center”, hind the position of all for us a formation is not information, it rather the project. We set up this diffi cult period. „ is a commodity. I think there is a project because of public se- critical public in Europe, but also rvices, in print media, there is Petar Miler in our country, which will help nothing that shows the way in us, certain ways, at least through which we actually want to di- legislation, not to say that the splay. So, we uspostvaili „Roma practice will not in any way try Information Center” 2007. year, to fi nd creative solutions in the thanks to international organi- opposite direction, but if this is zations, fi rst of all, there was an happening now in Europe, not to international organization „Gold say that maybe in fi ve years will Vision” which has enabled us not change, I think it will streng- to work together in partnership then the public service because with us, we start a project. Then public interest is what all those we tried to train the, to educa- answers. te representatives of the Roma, Sanela Bašić from BiH, who young people, educated to learn comes from the Roma Informa- the basics, to write news, and tion Center, met us with cove- we have since 2007. until now, Dimić Dimić V. Photo: V. rage of the Roma in the country have learned these things, how she is coming from: Sanela Bešić to communicate with the me-

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 25 NNGOGO WWITHITH BROTHERHOODBROTHERHOOD TTOO TTHEHE SSUCCESSUCCESS

They family gathered and they started family cooperation. In 2013th they will celebrate the tenth birth- day. We congratulate them on that and this article is our gift to them.

met with writing projects, from tree logistics and project management. This helped them to get together previous knowledge and experience.

The ﬁ rst project

The fi rst project of the association also received signifi cant support of the Ecumenical Hu- manitarian Organization, and the Fund for the nonprofi t sector in ć AP Vojvodina. The project was in the fi eld of human rights, and involved a children’s education on their rights. Participants were Photo: I. Dimić children from different ethnic Sava Aleksandrović and confessional communities Citizens’ Association Phar- pe translated into Serbian means (Serbs, Hungarians, Slovaks, lipe - Novi Sad is registered on brotherhood. With its positive Roma). 2nd April in 2003 year as ne area connotation of this word is found of the Ministry for Human and as the most appropriate for the Trust of local donors Minority Rights in Belgrade. name of the association, which At the time of registration the- involved the gathering, which Association so far gained the re were ten founding members, aims to help vulnerable joint. confi dence of local, provincial from Ilok, Žabalj and Novi Sad . and national donors. For com- Sava Aleksandrović, an initiator At the very fi rst begining petitions which were announced of initiatives for its foundation, founders has helped Ecumeni- by foreign donors, their projects said that he personally chose the cal Humanitarian Organization, did not go through. What is the name of this association. Pharli- which it is the two-day seminars reason for it is not known. Alek-

TThehe storystory ofof tthehe ssilverilver ﬂ uutete

In one of the concerts of young talent, took the young girl, Roma from around Obreno- vac. She fi nished elementary music school, majoring in fl ute, and showed exceptional talent and results. As the fl ute as an instrument set, and her family was poor, the girl could not continue to pursue his musical education. On this concert the audience was delighted. Among the audience was then found and the British delegation that was visiting the city. The mini- cocktail party was organized after the concert, a gentleman from the delegation approached the girl, asked me to get acquainted. On that occasion he told her that he himself played the fl ute in his youth, offered to help her in achieving her goal and asked for her address. After a while, the gentleman at her home address in person delivered his silver fl ute.

26 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina NNGOGO

RRomaoma familiesfamilies wwithith ffarmsarms

Although this association of the words Aleksandrovićevim not deal with social benefi ts and support, there is an interesting story attached to it. Namely, Sava was one of his fellow Roma, looked at his guest appearances on television, and it is so recognized. When he met him, invited him to come to visit him and his family. In fact, it was a family of refugees from Aleksinac, who lived on a farm near Novi Sad. Alexandrovich visited them. Picture of a newborn child and girls, which is the eye health vrca, on a farm, in terrible conditions, it certainly could not leave you indifferent. They did not promise anything, but in many ways trying to fi nd a solution to the problems of the family. And he succeeded. In fact, a lady from Futog, changed the furniture in the house, and old furniture, which was extremely well preserved, has decided that some gifts. Alexandrovich had heard of the story, called lady, who agreed to cooperate, and together with members of the association is to provide furniture to the house soon reach Roma families. At the suggestion of Mrs. Aleksandrovic agreed that it’s Roma family, the next two years maintained a house and furniture. sandrović thinks that for these nomically marginalized popula- The promotion of Roma cultu- competitions was a lot of lobby- tions, mainly Roma. However, re and Roma talents ing, and today he doesn’t regret as we learn from all Aleksan- for them. drovic Save Through the previo- The promotion of Roma cul- us projects, according to some ture and talents being developed For a successful project unwritten rule, it is always 30% in several branches: folklore, should be ... of participants made non-Roma amateur theater, the affi rma- For a successful project, ac- population. Training includes tion of musical talents. Besides cording to Aleksandrovic, the formal education in health, cul- them there within the association most important goal is to formu- ture, sports, environment, infor- and workshops for contempora- lišeš. In addition it is necessary mation. ry dance hip-hop, break dance, to make a balance and harmony jazz ballet. Most attention given between the time and resources you have available. Although the funds are used far less than needed, we should not abandon the project activities, they should just adjust to new conditions. And that is exactly what what makes this association and it has kept all these years. From the sea of other associations that have occurred sooner or later, the Bro- therhood is one of the few non- human entities on their way, so that today it is regarded as one of Photo: from association archives the most successful.

Youth education

First of all, engaged in education, youth, socially and eco- Young talents promotion

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 27 NNGOGO

association has provided for the top three trophies, especially the children happy. Sports games are so far tended to be male, because the boys were expressed far more interest in them. However, the latest sports games and followed the girls expressed a desire to organize such activities for them. So now that the association is planning the implementation of their wishes. Photo: from association archives Young talents promotion to promoting the association of with their teachers. Also this young musical talent, so I pulled year, Children’s songbook is pu- them out of invisibility and draw blished, which will soon to have attention to them. a spot in the readings. There are many interesting and touching stories related to The affi rmation of Sport this affi rmation. For our list is allocated Alexandrovich was the In addition to affi rming one that left the strongest impres- culture in the important fi eld of sion of him. work of the association is the organization of sports activities. Photo: from association archives Days Trifun Dimic For them, other than children and young people from Novi Rewarded in sports For the fourth consecutive Sad participate and those from year the association organizes surrounding villages. Alexan- The plans for the future and Dane Trifun Dimic. On that oc- drovich said, that the interest for the tenth anniversary casion, children who learn Roma sports among children and ado- language, perform their recitals lescents is extremely high, and As for the plans, they imply or recitals of famous Roma po- to him personally very happy. that the association to continue ets, who uvežbali Roma in class For the latest sports games, the the same pace, but to engage the younger actors in the projects. This would be supplemented by projects and modernized. On the tenth anniversary of the association is planning to organize a celebration and exhibition of the photographs presented by the work of the association. Association normally pays much attention to the archives of your photos, so that all that has happened and the rest were recorded. What is not recorded, as if nothing happened.

Photo: from association archives Jovana Davidović

28 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina HHealthcareealthcare HHEALTHEALTH CARECARE OFOF STUDENTSSTUDENTS

Health care of students at the University of Novi Sad can be accomplish at the Institute of Students Public Health. The Institute is located in the street Dr. Simo Milošević 6 in the university campus, close to almost all the faculties, student dormitories and canteens. Employees are well aware of the health problems of students and patients are willing to come out to meet them. Services Department can use all the students of the University of Novi Sad under 26 year and all students under the age of 27th years of age. To view the Department is required to bring a certiﬁ ed health card and an index. Check controls are free.

ear-nose-throat, mental health and eye clinic. Counseling working within the Institute are: the sexually- transmitted diseases, smoking cessation, contraception and family planning and healthy lifestyles. Opening hours GP service from 7 am to 20 pm, every day, in two shifts. Emergency (night, weekend), students can contact clinics in the city. Examinations

Photo: V. Dimić Dimić V. Photo: V. and interventions in the ambu- lance service are not charged. Health care program preceding. In the work of the All necessary additional includes students of primary Institute the following depart- information on the Institute and secondary prevention. The ments: laboratory diagnosis, students can be found at the program includes students of improvement and preservation www.zzzzsns.co.rs or by calling preventive care: a systematic of health, general medicine, 021/454 888 and 021/450 016 review of third-year students gynecology, internal medicine, II studies, health checks before dentistry, physical therapy and moving into student dormito- sports medicine with acupunc- ries, consultation operation, ture, skin and venereal diseases, control, vaccination and revac- cination, monitoring the epide- miological situation and health- educational activities. Through regular check-ups Institute acquires insight into the overall health of students. Systematic reviews are organized in consultation safa- kultetima, in which students can be informed about court dates. Primary prevention involves early diagnosis, early diagnosis, but the ﬁ rst iden- tiﬁ cation of risk factors, the wrong style of life that all the Dimić Dimić V. Photo: V.

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 29 HHealthcareealthcare

CCoffeeoffee ccounselingounseling

Coffee counseling is a project initiated by the Bureau fi t for health care students Novi Sad, where peer educators provide all students of the Universi- ty of Novi Sad informacjie quality of reproductive health of youth, nutrition, physical activity, mental health (emotional support) and substance abuse (including alcohol and smoking tobacco). Coffee Counseling Offi ce is located in the building of a new student dormitory C on the fi rst fl oor, and soon in additional locations and is open for visits every Wednesday between 17-19h. Peer counseling gives students the opportunity to share their concerns, fears, ask questions and obtain more effi cient solutions to problems related to health through consultation with their peers. Peer counseling is primarily intended to improve the health of students, and thus the quality of life, the acquisition of healthy lifestyles, leaving the old, bad habits and behavior patterns. Source: www.zzzzsns.co.rs Advisor / ca will listen to the problems openly, in a warm and friendly manner. He / she uses her skills and experience to help students in doing so they do not impose your opinion what should or should not do. Thanks to the counselor that gives full support to fi nd strength and confi dence for positive change. Coffee counseling in the future will host a series of interesting workshops, promotions, presentations and lectures on the above topics.

Zita Farkaš Photo: V. Dimić Dimić V. Photo: V. Students in the waiting room

30 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina SSuccessfulluccessfull RomaRoma RROLEOLE MODELMODEL FFOROR RROMAOMA YYOUTHOUTH

Danijela Bogdanović is a young, educated and successful Roma. Her mission is, as she says, that she with her work and effort to Roma youth give a new model, in which should prevail. „Young Roma, must understand that education is the only true path to better living and social standards,” says Danijela.

in the opportunities for better employment and to create the Roma intellectual elite.

Business success

In 2007. year, Danijela is working in her profession. First she worked as a cashier Meri- dian Bank in Novi Sad, then as a sales culture A.D. Bački Pe- trovac, and then as a supervisor Alpha Bank branch in Bački Pe- trovac. Today she works at the Photo: V. Dimić Dimić V. Photo: V. place of the local tax inspector Danijela Boganović tax Municipality administration in Bački Petrovac. That one In the fi rst place is education and Slovak language and infor- Roma performs this important mation is written. On the path function in a state institution, When she was 14 years old of her education her greatest is a clear indication that socie- she went in a visit of Univer- support were her parents’ ad- ty has an ear for Roma integra- sity of Novi Sad and from that vice, but there is an support for tion. According to Danijela’s moment she knew she will be a teachers. Motivation was found opinion the presence of Roma student one day. And thats how in the institutions is important the story started. After she fi nished secondary economic school „Svetozar Miletić“ in Novi Sad she entered on the College of Buissnes school department of Manage- ment of internal and external trade in 2001. After 3 years she graduated. Her education wa- sn’t ended here. Today Danijela is educated at one more level of the College she was attending. In 2004. Danijela got the certi- fi cate for writing project propo- sals of the Ecumenical Huma- nitarian Organization. It has a Dimić Dimić V. Photo: V. working knowledge of English Art colony

The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina 31 SSuccessfulluccessfull RomaRoma Photo: V. Dimić Dimić V. Photo: V.

Danijela with her students

because of their faster and bet- Council for the Integration of supported and helped. Today, ter integration into all aspects Roma in the Executive Council they are successful in your job of society. of AP Vojvodina (2009). From and help her in her mission, and Danijela says, to have 2010. she is the president of the that her greatest reward. Dani- excellent cooperation with all Association Čiriklji in Bački jela Bogdanović is an example her colleagues. Neither work Petrovac. of that effort and work prints a nor in school has never been a success. This is corroborated by victim of discrimination. In her Work with youth its business successes, but also view, the situation regarding the all the activities carried out in discrimination may be changed In working with children the ﬁ eld of Roma integration. only by the active involvement and youth by Danijela’s opi- Although sometimes it is not of Roma in the mainstream of nion is most important to them easy, Danielle does not give up. modern life. by their example to be a role Its deﬁ nitely the most impor- model. And she just does so. tant goal is to create a Roma in- Working with NGOs Youth organization achieves tellectual elite. In this way the animation workshops, panel integration of the Roma will get Daniel participated in the discussions and seminars for its real size and frame, and it is project as an educator Roma their education. Promoting edu- moto Danijelin Go ahead! schools in Roma settlement cation as the only real choice, Veliki Rit in Novi Sad (2004). which brings jobs, more secu- The project is funded by the rity and better living standards, Jovana Davidović UNHCR and the ICS. She was Danijela is the largest, but also a member of the Association the dearest obligations. Proud of Roma Students in Novi Sad of their achievements so far (2007-2008), member of the and all the young people who

32 The Roma Decade in AP Vojvodina