2. Governance Philosophy and Principles

The leadership of KUPATE BG operates under a clear governance philosophy, aligned with best practice in non-profit and public-sector management. This philosophy is based on the following core principles:

• Transparency: Decision-making processes, financial management, and programme implementation are conducted openly and documented clearly.

• Accountability: Leaders are accountable to beneficiaries, donors, partners, regulatory authorities, and the public.

• Integrity: Ethical conduct, independence, and respect for human rights underpin all leadership actions.

• Participation: Roma voices and lived experience are actively represented within leadership structures.

• Professionalism: Leaders apply evidence-based approaches, strategic planning, and responsible management.

• Public Benefit: All activities are directed towards measurable social impact and long-term community benefit.

These principles guide leadership behaviour and ensure that the Foundation remains credible, trusted, and effective.

3. Structure of Leadership

The leadership structure of KUPATE BG – Roma Public Council Foundation is designed to balance strategic oversight, operational management, and community representation. It consists of several interconnected bodies, each with clearly defined roles and responsibilities.

3.1 Board of Trustees / Governing Board

The Board of Trustees is the highest governing body of the Foundation. It provides strategic direction, oversight, and fiduciary responsibility.

Composition:
The Board is composed of elected and appointed members with expertise in areas such as social policy, education, law, finance, community development, and human rights. A significant proportion of Board members come from Roma backgrounds, ensuring authentic representation and community legitimacy.

Responsibilities include:

• Setting the strategic vision and long-term objectives of the Foundation.

• Approving policies, budgets, and major programmes.

• Ensuring legal and regulatory compliance.

• Safeguarding the Foundation’s assets and reputation.

• Appointing and overseeing senior management.

• Ensuring ethical standards and conflict-of-interest management.

Board members serve in a voluntary or honorary capacity, reflecting their commitment to public service rather than personal gain.

3.2 Executive Leadership

The Executive Leadership team is responsible for the day-to-day management and implementation of the Foundation’s strategy. This team translates policy into action and ensures that programmes are delivered effectively.

Key responsibilities:

• Operational management of projects and staff.

• Financial management and reporting.

• Coordination with partners, donors, and institutions.

• Monitoring and evaluation of programme outcomes.

• Risk management and organisational development.

Executive leaders are selected based on professional competence, leadership experience, and commitment to social inclusion.

3.3 Roma Public Council and Advisory Bodies

The Roma Public Council plays a critical role in ensuring that leadership decisions remain grounded in the real needs of Roma communities.

Functions include:

• Advising the Board and Executive Leadership on community priorities.

• Providing feedback on programme design and implementation.

• Supporting outreach, consultation, and civic engagement.

• Acting as a bridge between communities and institutions.

Advisory bodies may also include subject-matter experts, youth representatives, and external professionals who contribute independent advice.

4. Democratic Legitimacy and Elected Leadership

A defining feature of KUPATE BG’s leadership model is its emphasis on democratic legitimacy. Where appropriate, leaders are elected through transparent and inclusive processes that allow community representatives and members to participate in decision-making.

This approach:

• Strengthens trust between the Foundation and Roma communities.

• Ensures leadership reflects lived experience.

• Promotes civic participation and democratic culture.

• Counters historical exclusion from public governance structures.

Elected leaders are bound by codes of conduct and accountability mechanisms, ensuring that representation is matched by responsibility.

5. Responsibilities of Leadership

The responsibilities of the Foundation’s leadership extend beyond organisational management. Leaders act as stewards of public trust and advocates for social justice.

5.1 Strategic Responsibility

Leadership is responsible for identifying long-term challenges facing Roma communities, including poverty, segregation, limited access to education, inadequate housing, and discrimination. Strategic planning ensures that interventions are coherent, sustainable, and aligned with national and European priorities.

5.2 Financial Stewardship

Leaders ensure responsible management of funds, including:

• Transparent budgeting and accounting.

• Compliance with donor and regulatory requirements.

• Prevention of fraud, misuse, or conflicts of interest.

• Regular financial reporting and audits.

This stewardship is essential for maintaining donor confidence and public trust.

5.3 Legal and Ethical Compliance

Leadership ensures compliance with:

• Bulgarian non-profit and charity law.

• EU regulations, including GDPR.

• Anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing rules.

• Labour, safeguarding, and equality standards.

Ethical leadership is reinforced through internal policies, training, and oversight.

5.4 Representation and Advocacy

Leaders represent Roma communities in dialogue with:

• National and local authorities.

• European institutions.

• International donors and organisations.

• Civil society networks.

This advocacy aims to influence policy, improve service delivery, and promote equality.

6. Public Contribution to Roma Society

The leadership of KUPATE BG contributes to Roma society in ways that extend beyond project delivery.

6.1 Empowerment and Capacity Building

By promoting Roma leadership, the Foundation supports:

• Development of leadership skills.

• Increased civic participation.

• Role models for younger generations.

• Strengthening of community institutions.

6.2 Social Cohesion and Dialogue

Leadership initiatives promote dialogue between Roma communities and wider society, reducing stereotypes and fostering mutual understanding.

6.3 Policy Influence

Through evidence-based advocacy and participation in consultations, leaders contribute to shaping inclusive public policies at local, national, and European levels.

6.4 Accountability to Communities

Leadership remains accountable to the communities it serves by:

• Conducting consultations.

• Sharing information openly.

• Responding to feedback and criticism.

• Adjusting programmes based on real needs.

7. Professional Standards and Continuous Improvement

The Foundation’s leadership is committed to continuous learning and improvement. This includes:

• Ongoing training in governance and compliance.

• Regular evaluation of leadership performance.

• Adoption of best practices from the non-profit and public sectors.

• Engagement with independent experts.

8. Independence and Non-Partisanship

KUPATE BG – Roma Public Council Foundation operates independently of political parties and commercial interests. Leadership decisions are guided solely by the public interest and the Foundation’s mission.

This independence:

• Protects credibility and neutrality.

• Ensures fair and inclusive engagement.

• Builds trust with diverse stakeholders.

9. Transparency and Public Accountability

Leadership accountability is demonstrated through:

• Publication of annual reports.

• Financial transparency.

• Clear communication with stakeholders.

• Openness to scrutiny by donors, regulators, and the public.

10. Conclusion

The professional leadership of KUPATE BG – Roma Public Council Foundation is central to its mission and impact. Through a structure of elected, representative, and committed leaders, the Foundation combines democratic legitimacy with professional governance.

By acting responsibly, transparently, and ethically, the leadership not only delivers programmes but also strengthens Roma civic participation, promotes social justice, and contributes to a more inclusive society.

The Foundation’s leaders serve not as distant administrators, but as accountable stewards of public trust—working in partnership with communities, institutions, and donors to create lasting, positive change.