New anti-racism strategy pushes for equality for all

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 

Press release: Commission presents new Anti-Racism Strategy to continue building a true Union of Equality