Roma: European Integration through Education

Tomas Abel DE JONG

Master's thesis

An analysis of an education program in Floreti in relation to the post-2020 EU-Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies

European Integration through Education: An analysis of a Roma education program in Floresti in relation to the post-2020 EU-Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies

Abstract:

This research attempts to analyse the integration of Roma in the European Union through the use of educational projects. This is done in the context of the 'EU Roma strategic framework for equality, inclusion and participation' by the European Commission. Currently, EU-attempts at policy learning in the development of Roma education to support integration, progress has been lacklustre, and no concrete examples of solutions are yet available. That is why this research attempts to find solutions by asking the question 'What example of a good practice in Roma education plans could contribute to wider European Union policy learning and how could it be applied across the EU to foster progress in Roma integration?'. To achieve this, the research takes a small-N (single case) qualitative approach using a semi-systematic literature review and theory building process tracing. In addition, field research is conducted in form of semi-structured interviews and analytical field notes. The literature review shows four vocal points in Roma integration efforts in education. These are antigypsyism, societal organisation of Roma, form of integration strategy and state of education. A selection of 5 NGOs in Romania was made, after which Foundation Charis in Floreti, Romania was selected because of its after-school education programme, 16 years of experience and official accreditation with the Romanian government. Field research was conducted from the 5 th until the 11 th of July during which 6 interviews were held. The single-case study conducted shows 5 crucial factors which lead to an improvement in access to education for the circa 2,000 Roma in Floreti, as well as an improved attitude to the importance of education. These factors are long-term funding, long-term trust building, parental engagement, creating a safe environment and official conducting of activities (accreditation). Based on these findings, some general suggestions were made for a European policy approach to Roma integration. Based on the findings from the analysis, as well as existing policy analysis, two main suggestions are made. First, more attention should be given to local initiatives in Roma communities along with a long-term budget. Second, the EU-framework should provide funding for setting up a national or transnational NGO platform for exchanging expertise. The main findings of this research led to the formulation of a hypothesis. This hypothesis is 'The more focus there is on the long-term through inclusive community development, parental involvement an creating a safe environment for Roma children, the more likely their access to education is to improve.'

Abstract:

This research attempts to analyse the integration of Roma in the European Union through the use of educational projects. This is done in the context of the 'EU Roma strategic framework for equality, inclusion and participation' by the European Commission. Currently, EU-attempts at policy learning in the development of Roma education to support integration, progress has been lacklustre, and no concrete examples of solutions are yet available. That is why this research attempts to find solutions by asking the question 'What example of a good practice in Roma education plans could contribute to wider European Union policy learning and how could it be applied across the EU to foster progress in Roma integration?'. To achieve this, the research takes a small-N (single case) qualitative approach using a semi-systematic literature review and theory building process tracing. In addition, field research is conducted in form of semi-structured interviews and analytical field notes. The literature review shows four vocal points in Roma integration efforts in education. These are antigypsyism, societal organisation of Roma, form of integration strategy and state of education. A selection of 5 NGOs in Romania was made, after which Foundation Charis in Floreti, Romania was selected because of its after-school education programme, 16 years of experience and official accreditation with the Romanian government. Field research was conducted from the 5 th until the 11 th of July during which 6 interviews were held. The single-case study conducted shows 5 crucial factors which lead to an improvement in access to education for the circa 2,000 Roma in Floreti, as well as an improved attitude to the importance of education. These factors are long-term funding, long-term trust building, parental engagement, creating a safe environment and official conducting of activities (accreditation). Based on these findings, some general suggestions were made for a European policy approach to Roma integration. Based on the findings from the analysis, as well as existing policy analysis, two main suggestions are made. First, more attention should be given to local initiatives in Roma communities along with a long-term budget. Second, the EU-framework should provide funding for setting up a national or transnational NGO platform for exchanging expertise. The main findings of this research led to the formulation of a hypothesis. This hypothesis is 'The more focus there is on the long-term through inclusive community development, parental involvement an creating a safe environment for Roma children, the more likely their access to education is to improve.'

Keywords

Roma, Integration, EU Roma Strategic Framework, Non-Governmental Organisation, Intergenerational Learning, Inclusive Community Development, Theory Building Process Tracing, evidence based policy, policy learning

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 31. 8. 2021

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: Mgr. Jaroslav Šotola, Ph.D.

Palacký University Olomouc

Faculty of Arts

Master programme / field:
Humanities / Euroculture