Džanas peskero drom – we know our way: The slogan of Romodrom, a Czech NGO protecting the rights of Roma and other socially vulnerable groups and helping integrate disadvantaged members into society. I first met the organisation’s Chairwoman when I visited Romodrom’s base in Prague…

Stepping off the bustling street, I entered an infinitely busier office. Ms. Marie Gailova strode briskly towards me sporting an infectious smile and proudly wearing her determination and generosity laden personality on her sleeve. A warm handshake was followed by an enthusiastic introduction to the organisation she had set up in 2001 following her work in a suburb of Prague called Uhrineves. 15 Romany families had been living in a ghetto without running water, electricity, gas or adequate food provisions after their source of employment – a brick kiln, had been closed down. The children received no education and appalling living conditions were accompanied by exclusion from mainstream society. Ms. Gailova soon realised that resolving the housing situation was only the start. Her fieldwork convinced Ms. Gailova that more needed to be done to address the complex social problems of individual families. Romodrom was founded to do just that. In an interview at the NGO’s summer camp around 40km outside of Prague, Ms.Gailova explained to me the organisation’s activities and the challenges it faces:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3DpRT36Lgs