Communicative Methodology of Research and Recognition of the Roma People

Abstract

This article explains how the RTD Workaló project “The Creation of New Occupational Patterns for Cultural Minorities: The Gypsy Case (2001–2004)” and its research methodology led to institutional recognition of the Roma people by the European Union. The communicative methodology used in the Workaló project enabled representatives of the Roma to participate directly throughout the research. This has a scientific, political, and social impact. The Workaló case and other subsequent research projects reveal that when research is carried out following a communicative method, that is, by building scientific knowledge in dialogue with the object of study (in this case the Romani people), the results have a real impact on the lives of the most vulnerable. In conclusion, the egalitarian inclusion of the subjects throughout the study could turn the research process itself into a method for real social transformation.