Commission encourages member states to implement equality strategies

On 25 September, the Commission adopted three reports on key strategies aimed at ending discrimination and building a Union of Equality: the EU Anti-racism Action Plan 2020-2025, the EU Roma Strategic Framework 2020–2030 and the LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020–2025. The reports highlight progress in setting up national anti-racism action plans, strengthened support for Roma communities and a decrease in LGBTIQ discrimination. However, racism and hatred towards the LGBTIQ people have increased. Member States are encouraged to adopt and deliver on national strategies and action plans to foster inclusion, tackle structural discrimination, and increase funding and administrative resources. Furthermore, the reports found that member states must step up their collection of data, as well as adopt ambitious targets to measure their progress on Roma inclusion, which is still deemed insufficient.

Values and Transparency Vice President Věra Jourová (pictured), said:“Our reports show many achievements including the adoption of key legislation, national action plans and strategies or funding programmes. But to foster a society free from racism, discrimination, and inequality, we must step up our joint efforts and strengthen our cooperation with Member States and civil society organisations.”

Equality Commissioner Helena Dalli said: “These reports provide an update of the situation regarding discrimination against persons with a minority racial or ethnic origin, Roma and LGBTIQ persons, and the actions taken to implement the EU equality strategies. On its part, the Commission intends to follow up on the progress with new strategies. I call on all Member States to continue to act for a Europe where everyone, in all their diversity, is equal and free to pursue their life.”

This Commission has made combatting all forms of hate and discrimination a priority. In December last year, the Commission and High Representative Josep Borrell adopted a Joint Communication entitled ‘No place for hate: a Europe united against hatred‘. The Commission has also proposed to extend the list of EU crimes to hate crime and hate speech. Already in 2008, racism and xenophobia became criminal offenses in the European Union. Looking ahead, Member States shall fulfil new binding standards for equality bodies. In the coming mandate, and as reflected in her Political Guidelines and mission letters, President von der Leyen laid down her intention to task a Commissioner with proposing a renewed LGBTIQ equality strategy for post-2025, presenting a new Anti-Racism Strategy, and spearheading the implementation of the EU Strategic Framework for Roma Equality.

The reports adopted today are available online: EU Anti-Racism Action Plan 2020-2025 – Mid-term report, LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020-2025 – Mid-term report, 2020-2030 Roma Strategic Framework for equality, inclusion, and participation – mid-term report.

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