Aktualno
November 4, 2025
Project FORTUNA (Fostering inclusivity by combating intersectional discrimination against Roma individuals in healthcare in Slovenia and Serbia) focuses on identifying and eliminating inequalities in healthcare, with a particular emphasis on Roma communities in Slovenia and Serbia. The project addresses the specific challenges faced by Roma men and women in accessing healthcare services, primarily due to deeply rooted (gender) stereotypes within and outside their communities and experiences of intersectional discrimination by healthcare professionals.
The goal of the project is to improve healthcare access for these communities and to develop culturally sensitive, inclusive, and accessible healthcare practices in both participating countries. FORTUNA achieves its goals by raising awareness among healthcare workers about the impact of gender stereotypes and discrimination and by equipping them with tools to promote cultural sensitivity and combat discrimination based on gender and ethnicity.
As part of the project, specialized training is being developed for healthcare professionals, focusing on identifying and overcoming intersectional discrimination in healthcare settings. Additionally, the project actively involves Roma youth, who will be empowered with knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about their physical, mental, and reproductive health—regardless of prevailing gender norms and stigma.
By developing a unified FORTUNA educational module for Roma communities, the project will raise awareness about the importance of health, self-examination, participation in preventive programs, and help in exercising health rights. The project will also promote collaboration with various stakeholders, such as Roma community representatives, healthcare professionals, and policymakers, with the aim of shaping a comprehensive approach to improving the health of Roma communities and disseminating good practices in this field in both participating countries.
IPES:
A non-governmental, non-profit organization dedicated to deepening the understanding of gender equality in society. Committed to overcoming gender stereotypes in all areas of life through innovative approaches. Through various projects, IPES has gained experience in educating diverse target groups about discrimination, mainly through the lens of gender equality. The IPES team has extensive experience in organizing and conducting workshops, trainings, and other interactive activities for children, youth, and adults. In its work, across various projects, IPES also engages with marginalized groups and works closely with Slovenian policymakers.
Center for the Development of a Sustainable Society:
A pioneering cooperative initiative based in Pomurje, focusing on promoting sustainable practices in the production, processing, and distribution of food. In addition to its significant achievement of creating the region’s first zero-waste store, CRTD is deeply committed to promoting and supporting social sustainability through its wide-reaching project work, addressing key issues such as minority inclusion, Roma empowerment, and gender equality.
Roma Educational-Cultural Association “Romanipen”:
A non-governmental, non-profit organization founded by young Roma intellectuals and students with the aim of improving the quality of life for Roma individuals while preserving their cultural identity. The organization focuses on increasing the educational level of Roma, especially youth, with the goal of their empowerment and full integration into modern social life. OKZ Romanipen’s invaluable knowledge and experience stem from its close connection with the target group—founded by Roma individuals, it allows for a deep understanding of issues based on lived experiences and the challenges they face.
Institute of Public Health Kragujevac:
A healthcare institution responsible for public health activities, aiming to create conditions for the maintenance and improvement of population health in the region. As a specialized health center, the IPHK represents the first point of contact for people facing various health issues. It is organized into several units relevant to the FORTUNA project (general healthcare, dental unit, child and youth medical unit, emergency unit, women’s unit).
Healthcare Center Maribor:
A non-profit public institution that is part of the national public health network. It provides basic healthcare services in both prevention and treatment and, together with private providers and concessionaires, ensures primary healthcare for approximately 200,000 residents. The institution’s guiding principles are outpatient care, patient support, professional development, public awareness, the development of new healthcare services, and collaboration with other health institutions in Slovenia and abroad.
