Skopje, 7 April 2025 (MIA) - The Roma are an integral part of our society. They are not a minority, but a people with a rich tradition of music, language, history, and customs. They are our fellow citizens, neighbours, friends, and colleagues, and most importantly, citizens with equal value and dignity as anyone else, said Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski Monday evening at the event marking International Romani Day, April 8.

“Our vision is not for Roma to be merely tolerated or included, but to be equal citizens with the same power to decide, to create, to dream, and to live with dignity. That is why today is not just a day of celebration, but a day of accountability. A day when we reaffirm our commitment that there can be no progress without equality, no freedom without justice, and no development without the inclusion of all. We are building Macedonia as a country for everyone, for every child, every family, and every person, regardless of ethnic, religious, or social background,” Mickoski stated.

He said that International Romani Day is both a day of remembrance of past hardships, persecution, and exclusion, and a day of dignity, resistance, and hope. He noted that it's also a time to celebrate Roma culture and to speak openly about the injustices the community has endured, as well as the state’s commitment to overcome them.

“The truth is, the Roma community has lived on the margins for too long. Inequality is real, and systemic barriers remain. We are taking responsibility to break them down, step by step—through policies and through projects,” said Mickoski, emphasizing that education is key to inclusion.

For this reason, he added, the Government is investing in policies that will ensure an equal start for every child, regardless of ethnic or social background.

"Education isn’t just about learning facts, it’s about building self-confidence. It’s the path to dignity and the bridge that moves young people from the margins to the heart of society. For Roma children, education is more than an opportunity, it is a symbol of hope, a response to generations of injustice and exclusion. When a Roma child walks into a classroom, it is an act of defiance. When they graduate, it is a triumph of justice. That’s why the Government has made educational equality a priority,” Mickoski said, adding that education has the power to change the lives of Roma children.

He highlighted that the Government is actively working to integrate Roma into the labour market through active employment measures in cooperation with the Employment Agency, particularly targeting young Roma and women. These include skills training in trades and digital literacy, along with self-employment support via grants and mentoring. Since 2023, over 1,000 Roma have found jobs or launched their own businesses, he noted.

Shaban Saliu, Minister for Integration and Implementation of the Roma Inclusion Strategy 2022-2030, emphasized that today is a day to honour the history, culture, and contributions of the Roma community around the world.

“April 8 is celebrated as International Roma Day, a day of pride and a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the Roma community. On this day in 1971, the first World Roma Congress took place in London, marking a key step in affirming Roma identity. It led to important decisions such as the recognition of the Roma nation, adoption of the Roma flag and anthem 'Gelem, Gelem,' and the use of the term Roma," Saliu said.

He pointed out that this day is not just about celebrating the rich Roma culture and tradition, but also about reflecting on our collective duty, to create a society where all citizens, regardless of ethnicity, enjoy equal opportunities.

"Inclusion, equality, and respect for human rights must lead us in shaping a better future for everyone," Saliu said.

He emphasized that significant progress has been made, but, as he noted, the path to full integration and equality for the Roma community remains long.

"We are dedicated to protecting Roma rights and preventing discrimination in every area of life, education, employment, healthcare, public services, and housing. Our vision is clear: full social and economic inclusion, better societal standing, and equal opportunities for every Roma individual to live with dignity," Saliu said.

Minister for Inter-Community Relations Ivan Stojilkovikj said that the presence of nearly the entire state officials at today's event demonstrates how much the Roma community and other minority ethnic groups are in the government's focus.

“The Roma community in the Republic of North Macedonia is an inseparable part of the mosaic that makes our country so rich and diverse, and Roma are an essential part of our cultural heritage. They are deeply embedded in our nation's history and development, contributing in many areas. Today is not just a symbol of the Roma people's fight for equality, freedom, and dignity, but also a day for remembrance and hope. It serves to raise awareness of the rights and culture of the Roma community and reminds us that every citizen, regardless of ethnic or religious background, has equal opportunities to participate, contribute, and succeed,” Stojilkovikj stated.

He promised that the Ministry for Inter-Community Relations will do everything necessary to ensure that the integration of all communities into Macedonian society is not just an empty phrase, but a challenge that, through continuous work and sincere dialogue, will lead to the realization of the vision, a society where no one is invisible.

Photo: screenshot