The call for applications for the fifth EU Award for Roma integration in the Western Balkans and Türkiye is now open until 15 March 2023. This year’s edition of the award is dedicated to the Roma inclusion dimension in the digital agenda and the green economy, which represent new opportunities for improving the position of vulnerable Roma women and men in the region in the future.

The 2023 EU Roma Integration Award will promote private or public initiatives by various relevant Roma and non-Roma players – public institutions, private companies and businesses, employers, teachers and civil society organisations – to enhance the role of Roma in both implementing and benefitting from the green economy and digital agenda.

Roma integration continues to be a key priority in the EU enlargement process and the European Commission is committed to support and recognise the work done by Roma and non-Roma public institutions, private companies, businesses (including, but not limited to, employers and individuals such as teachers or healthcare actors) and civil society organisations who helped and achieved significant progress, concrete sustainable results and positive changes.

The 2023 award also confirms the EU’s commitment to support and recognise the work done on Roma integration. Gender equality and the empowerment of Roma women in the area of employment is an important dimension.

The EU Roma integration award aims to boost political commitment and support for Roma inclusion in the Western Balkans and Türkiye. This year’s award putting the spotlight on green economy and digital agenda is the fifth edition. The first edition of the award recognised the important role played by civil society organisations working for Roma integration. The second edition promoted inclusion, integration and empowerment of Roma youth. The third edition was dedicated to the “Unknown Heroes” Roma women who through their work and commitment have improved the social integration of Roma or brought positive change to their communities.

The fourth edition was dedicated to the extraordinary people who promote equality through employment.

The award is funded by the European Union and implemented by Roma Active Albania.

Applications must be submitted by 15 March 2023.