On 29 July 2026, we organized another meeting with Roma women in Jarovnice. The aim of the meeting was to create a space for an open discussion about women’s experiences with healthcare, violations of their rights, and upcoming activities focused on protecting the human rights of Roma women.

One of the main topics discussed was the issue of unlawful sterilizations of Roma women, which represent a serious violation of fundamental human rights. The discussion also addressed ongoing forms of segregation in some maternity wards, where, according to women’s experiences, they are placed in separate “Roma rooms” based on their ethnicity. Such practices are unacceptable and contradict the principle of equal treatment in the provision of healthcare.

The meeting also included a discussion about the film Prameň, which is currently being shown in Slovak cinemas. Together, we read our statement on the film and discussed how it portrays the issue of unlawful sterilizations compared to the real experiences of Roma women.

We also addressed other challenges that Roma women face in their everyday lives. We discussed barriers to accessing healthcare, discrimination, and other obstacles that negatively affect their position in society and their ability to exercise their rights.

We also informed the women about activities we are preparing from September onwards. We presented opportunities for them to participate in monitoring rights violations, educational meetings, and joint activities aimed at raising awareness of human rights and protecting the rights of Roma women.

We consider these meetings extremely important. They create a safe space for openly sharing experiences, mutual support, and strengthening trust among women. At the same time, they allow us to better identify the problems Roma women face and to seek effective solutions through legal assistance, monitoring, and advocacy activities.

We thank all the women for their trust, openness, and willingness to share experiences that are important for the protection of human rights. We also thank the municipality of Jarovnice for providing the venue for the meeting.