The Presidency's report on Roma inclusion has been endorsed by the EU leaders at the European Council meeting on 23 and 24 of June. The EU framework for national Roma integration strategies up to 2020 has as main goals the preparation, updating and development of Member States' national Roma inclusion strategies. The EU leaders asked for an application of the sets of policy measures within their broader social inclusion policies for improving the situation of the Roma by the end of 2011.

With this plan the EU intends to end the centuries-old exclusion of the continent's Roma minority. Under the EU Framework for national Roma integration strategies, each of the EU's 27 countries will set out how they intend to improve the situation of the most vulnerable Roma communities living on their territory. Member States will have to address four key areas for better social and economic integration – education, employment, healthcare and housing – and set out measures proportionate to their Roma population. EU funding and a strong legal framework to combat discrimination are available to support national efforts. Governments have until the end of 2011 to submit their national strategies.

Member States have to submit national Roma strategies by the end of 2011. They will have to specify how they will contribute to achieving the overall EU level goals for Roma integration. The Commission will then assess the national strategies and report back to the Council and the European Parliament in spring 2012. This exercise will be repeated on an annual basis, thus launching a regular review of progress made at national level within the EU framework.

The application of this EU framework is essential on Roma inclusion. Between 10-12 million Roma continue to face discrimination, exclusion and the denial of their rights. In the meantime, governments lose out on increased revenue and productivity because potential talent could go to waste. Better economic and social integration is an imperative, but to be effective, concerted action is needed at all levels to address the multiple causes of exclusion.

The EU plays a key role in coordinating action by Member States and helping with financial instruments, including the Social and Structural Funds; and supports such efforts being carried out in other bodies such as the Council of Europe.