ODIHR event focuses on supporting Roma rights defenders in Ukraine

Roma rights activists discussed how to strengthen their work to combat discrimination and protect human rights during the war in Ukraine at an event organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) in Warsaw.

Roma and pro-Roma human rights defenders help combat discrimination and seek remedies for human rights violations affecting Roma. The war following the Russian Federation’s invasion of Ukraine has added to the existing risks, making sustained support for their safety and security essential.

“Building and enhancing the capacity of Roma civil society has been a crucial pillar of ODIHR’s intervention in Ukraine. It is of paramount importance to redouble our efforts to provide protection, opportunities and resources for them,” said ODIHR First Deputy Director Tea Jaliashvili.

Participants shared their experiences of advocating for the protection and promotion of Roma rights during the war. They discussed how state and non-state stakeholders can better respond to activists’ needs, and how capacity development can support efforts to tackle discrimination and pursue justice.

“Legal and policy guarantees alone do not ensure the access of Roma women to healthcare services. A lasting change requires institutional accountability, effective protection against discrimination, and meaningful participation of Roma women in shaping these services intended to meet their needs. The safety of Roma human rights defenders, particularly women, is integral to this work. Documenting violations and advocating for our communities must not subject us to threats, intimidation or reprisals,” said Anna Burdeina, a Roma human rights defender from Ukraine.

ODIHR’s support combines training, mentoring and follow-up assistance in human rights monitoring, advocacy, gender empowerment, digital safety and security, and well-being. The three activists speaking at the event are taking part in an ODIHR advocacy programme that has been running since December 2025.

The discussion took place at an ODIHR side event during the 2026 Warsaw Human Dimension Conference, as part of the Programme on Support for and Engagement in Ukraine.