Project is funded by European Climate Foundation and is a follow up initiative of the GRIP 2024, ensuring the continuous participation of marginalized Roma communities in Slovakia in the green transition.
Background
Despite the emphasis on sustainability and green economy in EU policies and Slovakia’s Recovery and Resilience Plan, disadvantaged groups, particularly Roma communities, remain excluded. Marginalized Roma are often left out of these efforts, despite facing major socio-economic challenges such as unemployment, poor housing conditions, and limited access to energy and public services. RESDI works to change this by promoting fair and inclusive participation in environmental and social initiatives.
Project goal
The project aims to help Roma communities take part in the European Union’s green transition. It focuses on reducing energy poverty, supporting social inclusion, and building stronger partnerships between local communities, municipalities, and experts.
Main objectives
The project sets out to:
- Promote social inclusion and participation of Roma communities in the green transition.
- Support municipalities and local organizations with technical assistance and access to EU funding.
- Create innovative, community-based solutions to reduce energy poverty.
- Strengthen education, research, and advocacy for sustainable development.
What are the key activities?
- Technical assistance and municipal planning
RESDI provides expertise to municipalities to help them design sustainable development plans, conduct energy audits, and access EU funding. Energy audits in locations like Luník IX, Ostrovany and Veľký Krtíš have already shown that better energy management can significantly lower energy costs for residents. - Innovative local solutions
Based on audit results and community consultations, RESDI is developing pilot projects such as a microcredit program for housing renovations and a cross-sectoral social enterprise in Luník IX and Ostrovany focused on housing management and job creation. - Education and research
The project includes vocational training and research to increase employment opportunities for Roma people in green industries. It also develops studies on inclusive business models (ESG principles), environmental health risks, and community-based educational initiatives that promote sustainability. - Advocacy and network building
Through the creation of a Roma advocacy platform, RESDI connects municipalities, NGOs, and private partners to exchange knowledge and promote fair participation in environmental policies. Events like roundtable meetings and the Forum Carpaticum serve as key platforms for dialogue and cooperation.
RESDI believe the project will bring practical benefits by improving energy efficiency, lowering energy costs, and creating local employment opportunities. Additionally, we aim to establish long-term structures for knowledge sharing and advocacy, including the future Aarhus Centre for Roma in Central Europe, which will serve as a regional hub for promoting Roma participation in the green transition.
