Isaac Blake represented the UK at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg, November 2018
Through the Council of Europe (CoE), Isaac Blake represented the Romani Cultural & Arts Company and the UK at the Seminar on the Role of Roma Youth in Policy and Decision-Making Bodies and Structures, which took place at the European Youth Centre Strasbourg from 18–20 November 2018.
The seminar explored the role of mainstream youth and Roma integration policies in supporting the development of Roma young people and their participation in social and political life. It also created dialogue between policy makers and young people about the possibilities for integrating Roma youth issues into relevant policies and programmes at European, national and local levels.
Among its objectives, the seminar sought to generate ideas for further support for the role of approximately four million Roma youth in decision-making bodies and structures at all levels. The event was open to all those interested in learning about and promoting Roma youth participation and policy-making, including Roma young people, activists, youth leaders, representatives from civil society organisations, public authorities, European networks and organisations, and national youth councils.
Isaac Blake, Director of the Romani Cultural & Arts Company, said he was proud to attend the event and represent Wales, the UK and the charity. Isaac stated:
“It was so important to hear the voice of young people when developing policy and making significant decisions that affected them; for minorities, hearing that voice was even more important.”