Istanbul, 13/08/2014 - The Turkish government has drafted an action plan
to reach out the underprivileged Romani citizens and improve their
lives. The Ministry of Family and Social Policies delivered the draft to
Romani nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and asked for their
opinion. The plan will be implemented after consultation with the Romani
organizations.
Under the plan, the government will provide
vocational training for 5,000 Romanis initially to help their chances of
employment. Municipalities will provide incentives for Romani craftsmen
to open shops. Another step to help Romanis, for whom unemployment
remains a major problem, is providing them with temporary employment at
municipalities, schools and public institutions. Municipalities will
also set up Romani Consultation Committees in cities where they live.