The Szécsény micro-region consists of 13 independent settlements, totalling 20,000 people, among which 4,000 children and a significant Roma population. The area is characterised by high unemployment and an accumulation of social disadvantages.

Host Country : Hungary

Place and date : Budapest, 27. - 28.5.2010

Peer countries : Croatia - Czech Republic - Italy - Portugal - Serbia - United Kingdom

Stakeholders : Eurochild

A pilot programme was launched in 2006 with a view to breaking the cycle of poverty and social exclusion faced by children in the region. The programme is based on a comprehensive approach that combines the improvement of nutrition and healthcare for children, the modernisation of social and childcare services, the improvement of housing conditions, the development of public education and of the information society, and the development of employment opportunities for parents.

It was elaborated in partnership with the settlements, based on the premise that each local community is unique and must set its own local priorities, albeit within a framework of joint national targets.

Thanks to its democratic, participative, collaborative and comprehensive approach, the programme has proven successful and its nationwide dissemination has begun. Hungary hopes to share its experience with other Member States and to contribute to the development of guidelines for future local/micro-regional programmes for combating poverty and social exclusion, particularly of Roma children.

Peer Review manager

Ms Monika Natter (ÖSB Consulting GmbH)