15th World Roma Congress held in Bulgarian capital Sofia

SOFIA, BULGARIA - OCT. 30: Representatives of Roma organizations from nearly 40 countries came together in the Bulgarian capital of Sofia on Friday, Oct. 30, for the 15th World Roma Congress.

The congress addressed issues concerning the unity, representation, and future development of Roma communities across Europe and other regions of the world.

Toma Mladenov, head of the United Civil Initiatives and organizer of the congress, stated that 55 years have passed since the 1st World Roma Congress in London, noting important work has been carried out over this period.

Mladenov stress that no significant improvement has been achieved in the living conditions of the Roma community that poverty, low education levels, and social integration issues persist, particularly in Balkan countries.

They aim to establish an effective and functional council comprising representatives from various countries, he noted.