The Commission has presented today (Friday 18th September) a new EU anti-racism action plan that sets out a series of measures for the next 5 years.
Inter alia, the Commission will ensure that Member States fully implement relevant EU law and further strengthen the legal framework, if needed. This could happen in particular in the areas not yet covered by the non-discrimination legislation, such as law enforcement.
The Commission also calls on Member States to maximise the use of all the tools at their disposal, in particular the funding available under the next long-term EU budget and the Next Generation EU. The Action Plan is bringing together actors at all levels to fight racism in Europe more effectively, including through adoption of national action plans against racism.
Věra Jourová, Vice-President for Values and Transparency, said: “We have reached a moment of reckoning. The protests sent a clear message – change must happen now. It won’t be easy, but it must be done. We are going to work harder on this. We won’t shy away from strengthening the legislation, if needed. The Commission itself will adapt its recruiting policy to better reflect European society.”
Helena Dalli, Commissioner for Equality, said: “There is no place for racial discrimination and racism of any kind in democratic societies. We must all strive for our societies to be anti-racist. With this action plan, we acknowledge that racism is not only perpetrated by individuals but is also structural. Therefore, we need to address it at all levels of government to turn the tide. This is why, amongst others we address law enforcement, social attitudes, stereotypes and economic concerns; and encourage Member States to adopt their respective anti-racism action plans.”
