The ROVA project (Roma Civil Society Promoting EU Values) has successfully awarded 62 grassroots projects across the European Union, supporting Roma and pro-Roma civil society organisations working to promote democracy, human rights, equality and social inclusion.
Funded by the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme (CERV) of the European Union, ROVA is a 36-month initiative designed to strengthen the capacity, resilience and impact of Roma civil society, particularly at local level and in remote or underserved areas.
Supporting Roma civil society where it matters most
Roma civil society organisations play a crucial role in addressing antigypsyism, discrimination and exclusion in Europe. Their work spans key areas such as access to fundamental rights, civic participation, equality, education, housing, health, employment and environmental justice. However, many of these organisations operate with limited resources, small teams and restricted access to funding.
ROVA responds to these challenges by combining direct financial support with capacity building, mentoring, networking and advocacy, enabling organisations to strengthen their structures while delivering meaningful impact in their communities.
60 projects, one shared commitment to EU values
Through its national grant schemes, ROVA has supported 62 projects led by Roma and pro-Roma organisations in the countries involved in the project, including Spain, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, as well as other EU Member States.
The selected projects reflect a wide diversity of approaches, contexts and target groups, while sharing a common commitment to:
- Strengthening democracy and active civic participation
- Promoting human dignity, equality and fundamental rights
- Combating antigypsyism and all forms of discrimination
- Empowering Roma women, youth and marginalised groups
- Increasing dialogue between Roma communities and public authorities
Projects address both long-standing and emerging challenges faced by Roma communities, combining grassroots action with advocacy and awareness-raising at local, national and European levels.
Strengthening national coalitions and collective action
In addition to supporting 62 individual organisations, ROVA places strong emphasis on national Roma coalitions, recognising their key role in amplifying voices, coordinating advocacy efforts and monitoring the implementation of national Roma strategies. In September, 14 national coalitions have already been awarded grants from the ROVA programe.
By reinforcing cooperation between local organisations and national coalitions, the project contributes to more coherent, sustained and impactful engagement with policymakers and institutions, ensuring that Roma perspectives are better represented in decision-making processes.
An accessible and supportive grant-making model
ROVA’s funding model has been designed to be accessible and inclusive, particularly for small and grassroots organisations.
Throughout the project, grantees also benefit from ongoing support, peer learning and transnational networking opportunities, helping to build long-term capacity beyond the lifespan of individual projects.
Building lasting impact across Europe
By awarding 62 grassroots projects and 14 national coalitions and supporting a broad ecosystem of Roma civil society actors, ROVA contributes to building more inclusive, democratic and resilient societies across Europe. The project demonstrates the vital role of Roma-led initiatives in promoting EU values on the ground and highlights the importance of sustained investment in grassroots civil society.
ROVA stands as a strong example of how targeted support, rooted in trust and partnership, can enable Roma organisations to drive change — not only for their communities, but for Europe as a whole.
