The process of political socialisation of the Roma population in Montenegro is still in its early stages. They remain the most vulnerable minority in Montenegro, which is not very familiar with the political system or mechanisms through which trade unions act. 

The “United we reach more – voice to students, support to workers” project was aimed at increasing and improving the participation of both Roma and non-Roma students from Montenegrin universities in shaping the political and public life of Montenegro. In particular, 25 students had an opportunity to attend different training courses on democracy and human rights, the parliamentary system of Montenegro and public policies, as well as on public relations. They also conducted simulations of parliamentary debates and participated in a working group that created a monitoring and advocacy plan for political and social activism of young people in Montenegro, with special emphasis on marginalised groups.

As the majority of employed Roma people work in local utility companies, the project was also aimed at establishing effective institutional mechanisms to protect their economic and social rights through participation in trade unions. In that regard, 30 utility workers were trained on basic labour rights and various forms of trade union activities. In addition, the project helped establish the first ever utility workers’ trade union, while three unions were provided with technical equipment that will facilitate their further work.