EU summit on Roma Inclusion in Spain

The first day of the Summit, 8 April is the International Roma day (celebrated since 1971). This symbolic timing, chosen by the Spanish presidency, acknowledged that Roma are an integral part of the history and civilisation of Europe. An award-giving ceremony dedicated to Roma culture and traditional Roma celebrations also took place on the afternoon of the first day of the Summit.

Roma communities, the European Union's largest ethnic minority, continue to face persistent discrimination and segregation. The aim of the Summit was to take stock of the achievements undertaken at EU level for Roma inclusion, over the past two years, and to renew the commitments. Within the recent developments at EU level, the Summit placed a particular focus on the 10 Common Basic Principles for Roma inclusion, which aim at guiding the EU institutions and Member States, candidate and potential candidate countries when they design and implement new policies or activities. 

1. Constructive, pragmatic and non-discriminatory policies 

2. Explicit but not exclusive targeting

3. Inter-cultural approach

4. Aiming for the mainstream

5. Awareness of the gender dimension

6. Transfer of evidence-based policies

7. Use of Community instruments

8. Involvement of regional and local authorities

9. Involvement of civil society

10. Active participation of the Roma