The co-announcers of Roma Spirit 2026 are ACEC, Slovak Television and Radio (STVR) and the Office of the Plenipotentiary of the Government of the Slovak Republic for Roma Communities. The patronage of the 18th edition was taken over by public defender of rights Róbert Dobrovodský. “Roma Spirit is about all of us. It’s about what kind of society we want to create. This year it symbolically becomes an adult, and that brings new challenges. One of them is to make the bridge between people who want to change things for the better and those who know how to help them become even stronger and more stable.” said Roma Spirit author Ľubomíra Slušná Franz.
According to ACEC director Magdaléna Roth, the award has been bringing the stories of people and organizations to the public space for 18 years, which prove that positive change is possible. “Behind each nomination stands a specific person, community or solution that helps overcome barriers and strengthens mutual understanding,” she stated.
According to the representative of the Slovak government for Roma communities, Alexander Dašek, Roma Spirit is a space for making visible the stories of courage, solidarity and concrete help that change the lives of Roma communities in Slovakia. “Each year reminds us that cooperation, respect and mutual understanding are of real importance. I am pleased that this year we will also be able to honor people, organizations and initiatives that break down prejudices and bring positive change to society.” he noted.
Director of the STVR national broadcasting section, Attila Lovász, noted that it is not possible to receive an award without a nomination, therefore we should not forget the people and organizations that deserve our recognition, often working in the field outside of public attention, helping others and united by one common value – human dignity.
The Ombudsman stated that the award not only commemorates exceptional stories of courage and commitment, but also our shared responsibility to build a country in which no one faces discrimination or exclusion because of their origin or social situation. “Roma Spirit is an important voice of humanity and hope – and at the same time a call for us as a society not to be afraid to stand up for respect, equality and the fundamental rights of every person,” added Dobrovodský.
Nominations for the 18th Roma Spirit can be submitted until August 31 via the online form on the award page. From all received nominations, the preparatory committee will select 21 finalists in seven categories. The laureates will then be determined by an international expert jury and the act of the year jury. Their names will be announced during the Roma Spirit 2026 Gala, which will take place on November 29. The gala evening will take place on the occasion of the International Human Rights Day.
Source: Hlavnespravy
