A new EU strategy promises stronger enforcement and monitoring, but activists warn it lacks measures for reparations and systemic redress.
Racism is not a relic of the past, but a living structure that permeates European society and strikes at the foundations of democracy.
According to the EU coordinator for the fight against racism Mikaela Moa, structural racism is deeply entrenched in European institutions, and their ability to counter the colonial legacy remains critically important, particularly during the recent symposium on racism in Amsterdam.
Data from the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights show that nearly half of people of African origin in the EU have reported experiencing discrimination, with many facing barriers to employment despite holding university degrees.
Eliminating deep inequalities is essential for democracy, Moa emphasized.
Racism is not a relic of the past. It is a living structure. It is very evident to many of us, especially in these political times
– Mikaela Moa
A New EU Approach to Fighting Racism
The strategy adopted at the start of the year aims to strengthen the enforcement of existing laws, bolster national action plans, and counter racism in public administration.
It focuses on tougher enforcement of the law, the development of monitoring systems, and improved analytics on discrimination.
The European Network Against Racism ENAR criticized that the proposed steps do not provide adequate commitments to reparations or to addressing the consequences of historical discrimination.
Outlook and Challenges in the Context of Human Rights
Public discourse discusses the need for further steps to strengthen human rights protection and an effective response to racism in public administration.
The EU also condemned the worsening of human rights in Russia, underscoring the relevance of equality on the continent.
Overall, the new strategy requires close cooperation among legislative initiatives, systematic monitoring, and active civil society participation to reduce discrimination and strengthen democratic values.
The implementation of this plan opens a path to a fairer, more open society, where every citizen can expect equal opportunity and respect for human rights.