Every May since 2020, the European Union celebrates European Diversity Month to promote efforts in building equal and inclusive environments for the benefit of all. According to a 2023 study, over half of respondents see discrimination as being widespread in their country. 21% of respondents also felt discriminated against or experienced harassment in the past year.
During European Diversity Month, the Commission calls on companies and organisations to shine a spotlight on the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and society by organising a series of events and activities. More than 50 events are planned over the coming weeks.
This year’s European Diversity Month was officially launched at a ceremony on 25 April, during which cities and municipalities in Croatia, Italy, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden won European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Awards. The Awards recognise the work done by cities, towns or regions in the European Union to promote inclusion and create discrimination-free societies. The gold award for local authorities with more than 50,000 inhabitants went to Zagreb in Croatia. The gold award for less than 50,000 inhabitants went to Corbetta in Italy, which also won the public choice award.
Equality is at the heart of the Commission’s agenda. It is working to build an inclusive society and a true Union of Equality. The Commission has adopted five strategies and targeted actions that guide its work in the areas of LGBTIQ, gender equality, rights of persons with disabilities, anti-racism and Roma equality, inclusion and participation.
For more information
Register your European Diversity Month activity now
Eurobarometer survey: Discrimination in the European Union
- Publication date
- 30 April 2024
- Author
- Directorate-General for Communication
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