Darko Rudaš

In this post, we are featuring a column by Darko Rudaš, an experienced Roma councilor in the Municipality of Murska Sobota, who brings with him an impressive 30 years of experience in the field of Roma community development.

In addition to his role as a councilor, Darko Rudaš successfully serves as the President of the Forum of Roma Councilors of Slovenia and is actively involved in the work of the Union for the Development of the Roma Minority – Preporod. Furthermore, he is an important collaborator of the Development Center Murska Sobota, specifically in the field of Roma community development.

Young Roma, the Future Is in Your Hands – Take Initiative and Become the Voice of Your Community

Politics is not just the domain of the experienced and the elderly. It is a space where young people, bringing fresh ideas, energy, and a different perspective on the world, can create change. As a Roma councilor in the Municipality of Murska Sobota, I firmly believe that now is the right time for young Roma to step forward and take an active role in shaping the future of their community.

When I began this journey myself, I was full of questions, uncertainty, and doubt. But I quickly realized that these feelings are natural and a part of every new beginning. What matters is not to fear challenges but to embrace them as opportunities for growth and progress. Being active in politics and participating in local decision-making is not only a right, but also a responsibility—a responsibility toward our community, our ancestors, and future generations.

Many of you are already active in various areas—whether in school, at work, or within local non-governmental organizations. This engagement is important, but it is high time to take the next step and get involved in political processes as well. I want to encourage you to apply for the next local elections and run as a Roma councilor. Your participation is crucial to ensure that the voice of young Roma is heard and taken into account in important decision-making.

A Roma councilor has an important role—to represent the interests of their community, to fight for equality, against discrimination, and for better living conditions for all Roma. But this work should not be done in isolation. We need you, the youth, to bring new energy and enthusiasm into our ranks. We need your ideas, your drive, and your knowledge so that together, we can build a better future for everyone.

Do not be afraid of failure. Every step you take on this path is a step closer to the change you wish to see. Your political participation can have a significant impact on the development of the Roma community and the improvement of living conditions for all of us. Together, we can overcome the obstacles we face and create a more inclusive and just society.

That is why I urge you: run for office, get involved, be active! Become the voice of your generation and turn your vision for the future into action. Only through collective effort can we ensure that the needs and aspirations of the Roma community are heard and respected. Don’t wait—the future is in your hands!