The Department of National Minorities has signed an agreement with the European Commission for the implementation of the seventh phase of the project “Local Roma Platforms – a Path Towards Cooperation with Municipalities.” 📅 The new phase began on June 1, 2025, and will last for two years, continuing our mission to promote cooperation between Roma communities and local municipalities through the involvement of Roma mediators. What’s new in this phase? 🌟 🎓 Scholarships for Roma students For the first time, we are introducing 20 scholarships aimed at supporting Roma youth in completing secondary education or pursuing higher studies. ⚖️ Legal support services A dedicated lawyer will join the team to help address legal issues, including cases related to child protection and discrimination. 🎵 Community empowerment and cultural events From a Roma music festival in Kybartai to educational workshops, youth trips, and collaboration with Roma organizations in Estonia – this phase will focus on strengthening the community and celebrating culture.

On June 1st, we completed Stage VI of the project "Local Roma Platforms – A Path Towards Cooperation with Municipalities" 🎉 When important project stages come to an end, we usually count results. But this time, we want to share what we’ve learned over the past two years 👇 1️⃣ The impossible can become possible. During the 2023 International Roma Day, a young Roma approached us and shared his dream of having a music studio. At first, it seemed impossible — this activity wasn’t included in the project plan. But we adapted the project with the help of the European Commission, found a space, purchased equipment — and today, the studio is up and running! Young Roma talents are already creating their own music 🎶 2️⃣ Every project needs an advocate to defend Roma rights. In 2024, our lawyer won the first criminal case in Lithuania related to ethnic discrimination. This is a historic victory for the entire community! 3️⃣ Our mediators have grown — they’ve become community leaders. They bring together young people, organize trips and mutual support groups, and encourage active participation and confidence. We are proud of their growth 💪 🙏 We’re happy that through this project we’ve reached around 10% of the entire Roma community in Lithuania. 🔜 We’re now launching Stage VII, which will introduce a new and much-needed initiative — scholarships for Roma schoolchildren and students. We believe this will be another step toward equal opportunities.