Helping in marginalized Roma communities / In the east, it is a ticking time bomb. If we do not act quickly, big problems will come
Alena Molčanová, a social worker, highlights the urgent need for effective intervention in marginalized Roma communities in Eastern Slovakia, where their growing population poses significant challenges if not addressed.
Alena Molčanová, a social worker and coordinator at an NGO called Návrat, has been working tirelessly for twenty years to assist people from marginalized communities who are at risk. She emphasizes the numerous projects and initiatives designed to help these excluded communities but argues that the implementation of these strategies often fails due to lack of cohesion. Different organizations work in silos rather than in collaboration, which ultimately reduces the effectiveness of their efforts. Molčanová stresses that it is crucial to connect these efforts to create a more substantial impact.
In several districts in Eastern Slovakia, the Roma population has already surpassed that of the non-Roma residents. Molčanová warns that the rising numbers in marginalized communities can lead to severe socio-economic and social issues, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive and immediate action. She insists that engaging community members in the process is essential; without their involvement, initiatives are likely to fail. There is profound potential within the Roma community that remains untapped, and it is detrimental to overlook it.
The primary mission of Návrat is to support children in becoming part of families, especially focusing on at-risk families. By working towards integrating children into stable family environments, the organization recognizes the importance of early intervention and community involvement to foster a supportive network, thereby aiming to alleviate the long-term challenges faced by marginalized communities.