World Roma Federation Participates in United Nations High-Level Political Forum 2023

NEW YORK, NY - The World Roma Federation participates in the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) under the auspices of ECOSOC from July 10-19, 2023. Founder and President Janos Sztojka attended the opening meeting, where he encountered several influential individuals, including the Ambassador for Ireland's Permanent Mission to the UN and the Global Coordinator for Action for Sustainable Development.

This year's HLPF theme was "Accelerating the Recovery from the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) and the Full Implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development at All Levels." The World Roma Federation submitted written statements and an oral intervention by President Janos Sztojka concerning SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and its impact on the Roma community.

In his address, Sztojka highlighted the struggle faced by many Roma people to obtain clean water and sanitation. Stating that one in three Roma live without safe drinking water and that access to water supply systems remains low. He cited statistics revealing that up to 68% of Roma households in some European Union member states do not have access to water.

Sztojka called on member states to create targeted policies with sufficient funding, support inclusive urban planning, raise public awareness and involve communities, enhance monitoring and accountability, as well as collaborate with international organizations for guidance and support. Such actions will combat structural inequalities by guaranteeing equal protection of fundamental rights under European and national policy frameworks.

Addressing this urgent environmental crisis requires diligent efforts at all governance levels. By promoting cooperation among stakeholders, member states can improve access to clean water and sanitation for Roma communities. This will result in greater social equity and contribute to the overall health, well-being, and sustainable development of all citizens.

About the World Roma Federation:

The World Roma Federation is an international organization committed to advocating for the rights and welfare of the Roma community. They strive for a just society where Roma people can live in dignity, free from poverty, exclusion, and discrimination, while enjoying equal opportunities and protection.

Contact:

World Roma Federation

pr@wrf-gov.org