The project, which aims to make the experiences of Romani, Doms, and Abdals visible, identify their needs, and jointly develop solutions, is being carried out within the scope of the “Supporting the Capacity of CSOs in Disaster Risk Management Project,” which is funded by the European Union and implemented by us. Romani Godi has published the first issue of the newsletter it prepared within the scope of the project. This issue provides an overview of the project's objectives and scope, fieldwork and community opinions, contacts established with local and national institutions, and steps to be taken in the coming period.
We want to be at the very center of urban life, not on its margins
The bulletin notes that the Roma, Dom, and Abdall communities in Malatya have long struggled to enjoy equal access to urban rights.
"With the earthquake, these difficulties have deepened; access to decision-making mechanisms regarding the city has become nearly impossible. For the Roman, Dom, and Abdall communities, the right to the city goes far beyond access to basic services such as housing, healthcare, education, and transportation; it encompasses the right to have a say in how the city is shaped, the ability to exist safely in public spaces, and the demand for a life free from discrimination, equality, and dignity."
On-site observation for experiences and needs
During the first four months of the project, a survey was conducted to identify experiences and needs in urban life.
The survey was conducted in neighborhoods in Malatya where communities live densely and various inequalities in access to urban rights were observed. The survey aimed to understand the difficulties experienced in basic rights areas such as housing, education, health, and access to social services, as well as the visibility of these communities in public life. Participants were selected using the snowball method. During the fieldwork, a relationship based on trust was established with interviewers who were fluent in the Domari language.
The responses from participants revealed much about inequality in urban life:
“Look at other neighborhoods and then look here… For them, life means enjoying themselves and being at peace. For us, it means a roof over our heads and a piece of dry bread.”
“They think they give us a lot. But they don't even listen to us because we don't have coats or ties.”
Contact was established with institutions
In addition to collecting data during the implementation of the Romani Godi project, steps were taken to directly convey the demands, needs, and difficulties experienced by communities to the relevant institutions.
Meetings were held with the Ministry of Family and Social Services' Social Integration Department and CHP Malatya Deputy Veli Ağbaba. The challenges faced by Dom communities in accessing services after the earthquake were discussed, and findings from the field were shared.
To read the bulletin prepared by Romani Godi, which continues its efforts to make this process more visible, participatory, and sustainable, click here.