Over the past five years, the EU has made progress in tackling racism, particularly by breaking down barriers created by racial discrimination and by integrating anti-racism efforts throughout all relevant EU policies. But problems persist. And a recent EU survey reveals that two in three citizens still view racial discrimination as a widespread issue in their countries. The European Commission has now put forward an anti-racism strategy to combat racism in all its forms – to ensure a Europe where individuals can thrive.
The new strategy builds on the EU’s anti-racism action plan 2020-2025.
It aims to strengthen the implementation and enforcement of existing EU anti-discrimination laws by
- reviewing the Racial Equality directive from 2000 and considering stronger sanctions where necessary
- strengthening the rules on tackling hate speech and hate crime, and ensuring the rights of victims’ through EU laws
- supporting equality bodies in EU countries to carry out their work.
The strategy will also tackle barriers and foster inclusion in education, employment, healthcare, and housing. The Commission has proposed
- an EU-wide campaign on equality to raise awareness and engage citizens
- continuing equal access initiatives, for example, by supporting EU countries in eliminating bias in healthcare practices, and improving access to jobs
- carrying out a study to assess risks and identify solutions for improving housing for the most vulnerable groups.
In addition, the strategy will focus on building anti-racism partnerships at all levels of society by
- continuing the work of the Anti-racism coordinator to promote constructive dialogue and cooperation among EU institutions, EU countries, civil society and academia
- increasing support to civil society organisations fighting racism.
Through these initiatives, the EU anti-racism strategy 2026-2030 will tackle racism in all its forms, including anti-Black racism, antigypsyism, antisemitism, anti-Asian racism and anti-Muslim hatred. The Commission will monitor the implementation and will present a mid-term review to assess progress.
For more information
EU anti-racism strategy 2026-2030
Report on implementation of the EU anti-racism action plan
Supporting people, strengthening our societies and our social model
