The objectives proposed when submitting the application were: -increasing the level and skills of the 16 social mentors, selected from among the partner organizations, for working with the vulnerable Roma adult community, in the field of public communication and advocacy; -Informing/Awareness awareness, sensitizing at least 400 Roma adults from partner countries about the dangers and risks of early marriages among Roma children; -development of international relations and cooperation between partner organisations; -achieving a better social inclusion of Roma people involved.
APD Buzău submitted this application starting from the problems reported in the vulnerable Roma group, especially in Buzău. A study conducted in September 2022 showed that more than 65% of Roma interviewed agree with early marriages between their children, considering it to be an old tradition. Lack of education prevents them from understanding the risks and negative consequences of this on their lives and children. The project aimed to increase the level of information and education of Roma adults, with the help of experienced organizations, to make them aware of the risks and dangers of early marriages. Needs addressed: 1. For vulnerable Roma adults, the project aims to: inform about the risks of early marriages, combat racism and discrimination, reduce school dropout and raise awareness of the negative impact of early marriages on children's health. 2. For adults in the partners' own staff: participation in training programs on social mentoring for Roma 3.For partner organisations: the project aims to train social mentors for Roma adults, update training programmes and develop international partnerships for social inclusion.