Based on its findings, NDI developed recommendations that highlight the importance of including Roma issues on political agendas at all levels and the need to devote improved financial and human resources to the problem. Specific recommendations include: - Romania’s mainstream political parties need to address more publicly and meaningfully the dire situation facing Roma and develop effective outreach strategies with designated liaisons to the Roma communities and Romani NGOs. There should be issue based platforms and activities addressing Roma, and real outreach in between elections, not just in every four year, trying to convince the Roma AND poor population through different incentives to give the vote to their candidates. - Funding to civil society by the Romanian government as well as the international community should be increased for projects that boost political participation, enhance civic activism and education, and promote issue-based advocacy. - The Government and Parliament of Romania should strengthen the mandate, neutrality and resources of the National Agency for Roma to improve coordination among the various ministries and other governing bodies dealing with Roma issues. - The National Council for Combating Discrimination should be promoted more broadly as a public service agency for Roma and all groups that suffer discrimination. - The Roma Party, as we have 19 officially recognized minorities, and the Roma Party is the one having a seat in the Chamber of Deputies due to the