The Ecumenical Humanitarian Organization (EHO) presented the results of seven successfully implemented local initiatives in Novi Sad. Over the past year, these initiatives have contributed to children's education, the preservation of the Roma language and culture, and the economic and social empowerment of women across Serbia. Carried out as part of the "Empowering Local Roma Organizations" project, these initiatives brought together representatives from associations in seven cities and municipalities to showcase tangible progress in violence prevention, the strengthening of solidarity, and increased youth participation in local communities.

Representatives from organizations in Smederevska Palanka, Kostolac, Aleksinac, Babušnica/Pirot, Bačko Gradište, Novi Sad, and Belgrade presented the concrete outcomes of their work—ranging from printed publications and festivals to educational programs and digital campaigns.

EHO Director Anna Brtka Valent highlighted the importance of continuous support for local organizations and communities, emphasizing that these initiatives demonstrated how collaboration, dialogue, and dedication can lead to long-term, positive change.

Overview of implemented local initiatives:

1        "Preserving Language, Sharing Stories" – Roma Community Development Center "Amaro Drom," Smederevska Palanka
Through creative writing workshops, children explored their culture and created stories, fairy tales, and poems. Their work was published in a bilingual collection (in Serbian and Romani), which was officially launched at the "Olga Milošević" Elementary School and within the local community.

2        „Pushing Boundaries – I Am a Heroine" – Women’s Association from Kostolac
A three-day feminist festival was organized at the Viminacium Archaeological Park, bringing together 37 activists and leaders from across Serbia. Through workshops, panel discussions, and artistic activities, the project strengthened solidarity, networking, and the visibility of Roma women's activism.

3        "After-School Support for Children" – Roma Integration and Education Center AL, Prćilovica–Aleksinac
Over a three-month period, the project provided supplementary classes and mentoring support twice a week for Roma children in grades 1 through 4. The focus was on reducing absenteeism, improving academic performance, and strengthening the role of parents in education.

4        "The Right to a Life Without Fear" – Roma Association "Zora", Babušnica
The initiative focused on preventing violence against women and informing Roma women about their rights and available protections. In addition to educational workshops, a public performance was held at the Roma Cultural Center in Pirot to mark the Day of Remembrance for Femicide Victims.

5        "Learning to Participate and Decide: Participatory Processes for Children and Youth" – Humanitarian Association "Đina", Bačko Gradište
Thirty children and young people (aged 8–18) participated in seven interactive workshops and decision-making process simulations. The young participants developed communication and critical thinking skills and gained insight into the work of local institutions.

6        "Tastes of Tradition – Roma Cuisine as a Bridge of Togetherness" – Women’s Association "Educational Center of Young Hopes" (Edukativni centar mladih nada), Novi Sad
Through culinary workshops held in the Veliki Rit and Slana Bara neighborhoods, older community members passed on traditional recipes to young people. A bilingual, illustrated brochure was produced in both print and digital formats, and the project culminated in the "Veliki Rit and Slana Bara Feast" event.

7        "Pride as a Foundation, Solidarity as a Bridge" – Association of Young Volunteers, Belgrade
Focused on combating anti-Gypsyism and stereotypes, the project empowered 15 young people through education on Roma history and culture, in collaboration with the ERIAC organization. An accompanying digital campaign garnered over 53,000 views on social media.

The project "Empowering Local Roma Organizations" is implemented by the Ecumenical Humanitarian Organization (EHO), with financial support from HfO – Hoffnung für Osteuropa and Diakonie Württemberg (Germany).