Important Facts of the News
- International Romani Language Day marked on 5 November 2025
- Sixth International Conference on “Safeguarding the Romani Language” held in Berlin
- Organised by Council of Europe’s Roma and Travellers division and ERIAC
- Focus on Romani-language education, linguistics, and cultural heritage
- Formation of the Romani PEN centre, aspiring member of PEN International
- Romani language protected under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages
- Romani enjoys varying levels of protection in 16 of 25 states ratifying the charter
- New factsheet launched presenting recommendations for Romani promotion
- Strategies suggested include teacher training, media support, and sustainable funding
Celebrating Romani Language and Culture
The Romani language serves as a cornerstone of Roma identity, fostering community belonging and social participation. Beyond being a heritage marker, it functions as a living medium of communication connecting Roma communities across different countries and dialects.
International Conference in Berlin
On the occasion of International Romani Language Day, the Council of Europe’s Roma and Travellers division, in collaboration with the European Roma Institute for Arts and Culture (ERIAC), convened the sixth International Conference on “Safeguarding the Romani Language” in Berlin. The event brought together global experts from academia, government, and community organizations to discuss the harmonisation and advancement of Romani language use internationally.
Romani Literature and the PEN Centre
Literature remains central to the preservation of Romani. This year, the conference highlighted the next steps in establishing the Romani PEN centre, aimed at joining the PEN International network of writers. The initiative is designed to unite Romani writers, poets, translators, and language advocates, fostering cross-border collaboration and amplifying Roma voices in the global literary sphere. Founding members convened to approve the centre’s statute, formalising this key platform for Romani literary professionals.
Legal Protection and Policy Recommendations
The European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages offers Romani a legal framework for protection. Among the 25 states that have ratified the charter, 16 provide Romani with varying levels of safeguards. A newly launched factsheet outlines strategies for promoting the language and integrating it into public life, including enhancing teacher training, expanding Romani-language media, and securing sustainable funding. The charter’s Committee of Experts encourages comprehensive approaches to ensure the language’s growth and preservation.
Conclusion
Through education, literature, and legal measures, the Council of Europe and its partners continue to strengthen Romani language protection. Initiatives like the International Conference and the formation of the Romani PEN centre highlight a sustained commitment to cultural preservation and the empowerment of Roma communities across Europe.