Overview:
The project is a follow up initiative of the GRIP – 2024 initiative, ensuring the continuous participation of marginalized Roma communities in Slovakia in the green transition. The new GRIP 2025 project focuses on addressing energy poverty, promoting sustainable development, and fostering socio-economic inclusion through research, advocacy, and education. This initiative builds on prior efforts and expands activities to create a long-term impact.
Problem Statement:
Despite the emphasis on sustainability in EU policies and Slovakia’s Recovery and Resilience Plan, disadvantaged groups, particularly Roma communities, remain excluded. These communities face high unemployment, lack access to resources, and suffer from energy poverty. The project addresses these challenges by providing technical support, implementing innovative solutions, and advocating for inclusive policies.
Objectives:
Enhance social inclusion of Roma communities in the green transition while reducing energy poverty.
Strengthen advocacy and network-building for sustainable development of marginalized Roma communities.
Increase technical capacity, learning opportunities, and resource accessibility for municipalities and local partners.
Improve socio-economic conditions while reducing environmental burdens.
Key Thematic Areas ans Activities:
Technical Assistance & Municipal Planning:
Support municipalities in sustainable development planning and access to EU funds.
Conduct energy audits to improve energy efficiency and access to public funding.
Innovative Solutions:
Develop a low-interest microcredit program for energy-efficient housing renovations.
Establish a social enterprise at Luník IX to improve energy efficiency and create jobs.
Education and Research:
Design training programs to increase employment in sustainable industries.
Conduct studies on ESG potential and environmental health risks for Roma communities.
Implement local sustainability initiatives and educational campaigns.
Advocacy and Network-Building:
Establish an advocacy platform to integrate Roma communities into green policies.
Organize roundtable meetings to facilitate dialogue between stakeholders.
Expected Impact:
Improved energy efficiency and reduced energy poverty.
Strengthened local capacity and sustainable policy-making.
Long-term sustainability through institutionalized support mechanisms.
Increased advocacy for Roma inclusion in green transition initiatives.
Strategic Fit:
The European Climate Foundation supported project aligns with the (ECF) strategy by fostering an inclusive, sustainable development narrative. It contributes to key ECF outcomes, including accessibility of renewable energy, protection of vulnerable groups from energy crises, and adaptation strategies for disadvantaged communities.
Organizational Strength and Uniqueness:
RESDI is uniquely positioned to lead this project due to its interdisciplinary expert team, strong network of municipal and national partners, and proven participatory methodologies. The organization’s experience in policy advocacy, technical assistance, and research ensures effective project execution and scalability.
Sustainability and Growth Plan:
The project is part of a long-term strategy, with RESDI seeking continued collaboration with ECF and other funding sources such as Horizon Europe, DBU, and EUKI. Partnerships with municipalities and regional organizations will ensure financial sustainability and cross-border expansion.
Timing and Risks:
Immediate action is necessary to integrate marginalized Roma communities into ongoing EU sustainability policies. Risks include political changes and limited expert availability, which will be mitigated through diversified partnerships and proactive capacity planning.
Conclusion:
This project provides a sustainable, community-driven approach to integrating Roma communities into the green transition. Through technical assistance, innovative solutions, education, and advocacy, it will create lasting improvements in energy efficiency, socio-economic inclusion, and environmental resilience.
