In the framework of Macedonia's Presidency with the Decade of Roma Inclusion 2005-2015, international conference "Towards Better Health of Roma" in held Tuesday in Skopje, hosted by the Cabinet of Minister without Portfolio Nezdet Mustafa and H.E.R.A - Health Education and Research Association.

Minister Mustafa said the growing phenomenon of poverty and social exclusion of the Roma population is visible in the Republic of Macedonia, whereas a challenge for all countries involved in the Roma Decade is coping with these threats and mitigation of negative effects.

"The risks for the Roma population require our closer attention. Roma currently have the highest mortality rate, along with a decreasing birthrate by the year. This leads to an alarming situation with regards to the survival of our community and future", said Mustafa.

He announced the launch of project Roma Health Mediators, along with the introduction of mobile first-aid stations in Roma-populated places.

"This is why the problem of personal identification documents and health insurance needs to be solved", added Mustafa.

The overall aim of the conference is to enable proper access to primary healthcare of Roma and to improve the model of Roma Health Mediators.

The Conference represents a good opportunity for exchanging views among relevant national stakeholders from 12 participating countries, along with international representatives, experts and NGOs. This will contribute to further acquiring of appropriate health policies and good practices, as a precondition for effective access to primary healthcare of Roma.