Romani Voice in Academia: The Representation and Contribution of Roma

In the last two decades, the Roma issue turned to be considerably frequent research topic, attracting the attention of various researchers, policy-making experts, public institutions and international organizations, which greatly shaped the public discourse on Roma. However, the overall discourse and awareness on Roma situation, often presents a “curious consensus on who the Roma are and typically reinforcing stereotypes” (Surdu, 2014). The results and effects of academic products are not only confined in the field of research, but also in scientific analysis. Evidently, academic thought is logically connected and affects many other spheres of social life, i.e. politics, economy, culture, and broader social relations, including public opinion. The purpose and objective of this event is to open once again debate and look at:

a. Diverse approaches and experiences apropos emerging national and European policies for Roma inclusion vis-à-vis
b. Aspirations for representation and contribution of Roma in the academic circles.

Referring upon the legitimate participation principle “Nothing for us, without us”, Roma intellectuals are often questioning the added value and relevance of academic research and policy advice. Taking into consideration the increased access of Roma students (facilitated by different programs and scholarship), which results in new generation of Roma MA and PhD students, the question of representation of Roma in academia yet remains. This discussion tackle the following questions: Does the existing research on Roma reinforce the stereotype image of Roma or produce new knowledge? How Roma contribute to the Academia and what is the importance of having Roma in Academia? How Universities can facilitate the access of Roma in Academia?