This nation-wide project addresses 3 pivotal points of access for prevention and addressing the issues of child marriage: Workshops with 900 girls provide them with skills necessary to negotiate their own rights, discussions with 1200 community members raise awareness on the health and wellness impacts of child marriages on girls. Lastly, established local coalitions comprised of local government officials and activists in 10 municipalities work to prevent and address cases of child marriage.
Despite efforts by civil society and states, Roma women in the Western Balkans face slow progress due to poverty, discrimination and child, early and forced marriage. Over half marry before 18, often under family pressure. This leads to poor living conditions, low education, violence, limited autonomy and repeated cycles of early marriage, while institutions largely fail to prevent or report these cases.
We address child marriage in Serbia's Roma community through education, dialogue, capacity building, stakeholder cooperation and advocacy. We hold workshops with Roma girls, families and community members to raise awareness of rights and laws, and foster leadership. Community dialogues open space for taboo issues. Roma women activists lead local coalitions with institutions, while advocacy stresses that child marriage is not tradition and that children at risk must be protected.
This project equips key actors with sustainable skills to advocate for rights, challenge harmful traditions and protect all citizens. Roma girls will gain knowledge to make informed choices, stay in school, achieve independence and break poverty cycles. Work with the community will reduce acceptance of child marriage. Local coalitions in 10 municipalities will foster multisector cooperation, led by Roma women activists whose involvement strengthens impact and advances gender and racial justice.
Support this important cause by creating a personalized fundraising page.
Start a Fundraiser
