Regional systems 137 The main tasks of the Fundamental Rights Platform are to: • Involve civil society organizations as partners in various stages (from inception to evaluation) of the Fundamental Rights Agency’s research, activities, education and awareness-raising projects. NGOs, for example, participate in the initial development of the Agency’s projects and so help to shape project terms of reference and ensure that they contribute to practical solutions in the field. At a later stage, NGOs may act as researchers or external contractors. In order to facilitate synergies between the Agency’s work and NGO activities, key stakeholders receive Agency research findings in advance (e.g., embargoed copies of reports), and they are important partners in disseminating research results; • Provide feedback and suggestions for the Agency’s annual work programme and annual report. Members of the Fundamental Rights Platform meet annually. In November 2009, the Fundamental Rights Agency launched a drive to increase participation in the Platform, which is expected to expand to around 300 organizations. European Union action for Roma Of the estimated 10 million to 12 million Roma in Europe, six million live in the European Union. The European Union approach to Roma issues is “explicit, but not exclusive targeting”, that is, Roma inclusion is not separated from mainstream EU activities. Instead, attention is paid to the specific situation of Roma within all EU policies and instruments aiming to improve the overall social and economic situation of people living in Europe.168 Legislation EU legislation on discrimination, racism and xenophobia or freedom of movement (see above) fully applies to Roma, the majority of whom are EU citizens. Coordination of national policies The European Union has made an unprecedented commitment to making a tangible difference to the situation of Roma. Following the adoption on 5 April 2011 of the Commission’s proposal for an EU Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies up to 2020,169 the Council has adopted conclusions in which member States have expressed their commitment to follow the approach proposed by the Commission, and adopt or develop national Roma integration strategies or integrated sets of policy measures for Roma inclusion.170 Four key priority areas have been identified: education, health, employment and housing. Funding The European Social Fund supports employment and helps people enhance their education and skills. The European Regional Development Fund supports regional development, economic change, enhanced competitiveness and territorial cooperation throughout the European Union. The European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development aims at improving living conditions in rural areas of the European Union. The PROGRESS programme (see above) funds awarenessraising activities to combat discrimination against Roma and support an EU-wide network of NGOs representing Roma and defending their rights. Other activities and funding mechanisms See http://ec.europa.eu/roma (accessed 4 December 2012). 168 COM(2011) 173. 169 EPSCO Council of 19 May 2011 and European Council of 23-24 June 2011. 170