The ROVA Project – No Language, No Identity was developed in response to the long-term linguistic and social isolation experienced by Deaf Roma living in marginalized communities in Slovakia.
Many Deaf children grow up without access to Slovak Sign Language, without early diagnosis, and without opportunities for meaningful communication with their families and surroundings. As a result, they face language deprivation, limited access to education, healthcare, public services, and essential information.
The project builds on the findings of the first systematic mapping of Deaf Roma in Slovakia, conducted by SVET TICHA in cooperation with Healthy Regions, and further develops long-term activities aimed at protecting the linguistic and human rights of this community.
Main Objectives
- Promote the right to language and communication.
- Identify and address language deprivation among children.
- Map the needs of Deaf Roma communities.
- Strengthen community engagement and participation.
- Increase access to information.
- Support inclusion in education and healthcare.
- Create opportunities for Deaf Roma to actively participate in decision-making processes affecting their lives.
Expected Outcomes
- Policy recommendations for public authorities and decision-makers.
- Participatory research and data collection.
- Community consultations and engagement activities.
- Audiovisual outputs raising awareness of Deaf Roma experiences.
- Support for community leaders and advocates.
- Digital information and communication tools.
- A stronger public voice for Deaf Roma within society and public discourse.
“Without language, there is no identity. Without communication, there is no equality.”
