Creation of a European Roma Institute

The Open Society institute, together with the European Union announced the creation of a European Roma Institute, aimed at celebrating and showcasing the rich Rroma culture.

According to George Soros, “the Institute will celebrate Romani heritage while also recording the Romani experience and acting as a vibrant creative hub. It will be a place for Roma in the arts to work together and connect with the creative community across Europe for the exchange and development of ideas. Through its events, exhibitions, and performances the Institute will seek to educate the wider public on the richness and greatness of Roma culture and achievement. Institutionally, it will also act as a policy advisor to the Council of Europe and member states, seeking to establish partnerships with similar bodies around the world.”

The key element lies in the last point. If it can successfully influence policies in Europe and contribute to diminish the stigma still associated with this minority, then, this is great. Otherwise, critics such as Yaron Matras (see below) may well prove to be right.