Communities are shaped not only by geography, but by the intentions we place upon the land — intentions to shelter, to include, and to find room for every voice in the rhythm of daily life. In the Pomurje region, discussions are now stirring around where a model Roma settlement might be established as part of a broader pilot initiative aimed at improving living conditions, legal status, and access to public services for Roma communities.

The idea stems from a government‑led pilot project to create a settlement that could serve as an example of how housing, infrastructure, and services might be more systematically integrated for Roma residents. The initiative was shared with 25 municipalities known to have Roma communities, with a request to nominate a feasible location that is not at risk of flooding or other environmental constraints.

Among the municipalities in Pomurje, Rogašovci has emerged as one of the potential locations where talks could begin about such a settlement. Representatives from the municipality have already begun preliminary discussions with officials about the pilot project legalizing and structuring Roma settlements in collaboration with local communities.

This conversation highlights both the opportunities and challenges that come with such planning. The proposed settlement concept aims to clarify land ownership relationships, install necessary infrastructure, and improve access to public services, including education — core elements that can influence quality of life and future prospects for residents.

Although the Rogašovci idea has been included in initial planning dialogues, it has not yet been formalized with binding commitments. Local authorities would next work toward a “letter of intent” with the national government, a step that would define responsibilities and expectations for both partners in the project.

For Pomurje — a region with a long history of diverse communities living side by side — the proposal represents more than a spatial decision. It becomes part of a broader reflection on shared space, community cohesion, and how policies can bridge gaps in living standards while respecting local identities.

In the months ahead, the answers will take shape not only in maps and meetings, but in the voices of residents and leaders alike, seeking a settlement that serves as a true model of inclusion and mutual respect.

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Sources Svet24.si Sobotainfo.com