ARAKHEL - SUPPORT CENTERS AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE FOR ROMA WOMEN

The ARAKHEL project is a European initiative dedicated to preventing and combating gender-based violence and domestic violence against Roma women, one of the most vulnerable groups in Europe. The intervention starts from the reality that Roma women frequently face multiple discrimination, ethnic, social, and gender-based, as well as poverty, isolation, and limited access to protection services. In many communities, violence remains underreported, while victims encounter major barriers in accessing medical, legal, or social support.

Funded by the European Union through the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) Programme, DAPHNE strand, the project is implemented between March 2026 and February 2028 and contributes to the EU Gender Equality Strategy and the EU Roma Strategic Framework 2020–2030. The international consortium is coordinated by Symplexis in Greece and brings together organizations from Romania, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia that specialize in Roma rights and support for victims of violence.

The main objective is to improve Roma women’s access to specialized protection services by developing an integrated support model. The project includes an analysis of existing services, the development of methodologies, the training of at least 100 Roma mediators, and the establishment of community support centers dedicated to victims. These centers will provide integrated services, including psychological counselling, legal assistance, social guidance, medical support, and reintegration assistance adapted to the specific needs of Roma women.

Roma mediators play an essential role in the project, being trained to identify cases, counsel victims, and facilitate access to protection institutions. The project also includes information and awareness campaigns aimed at challenging stereotypes, patriarchal norms, and social tolerance for violence.

SASTIPEN contributes to implementation in Romania, mediator training, research, and dissemination of results, drawing on its experience in community interventions and integrated services for Roma communities. Through the development of a replicable support center model, increased awareness, and stronger institutional cooperation, ARAKHEL contributes to building durable protection mechanisms and promoting equality and fundamental rights for Roma women affected by violence.