Green Paper – Equality and non-discrimination in an enlarged European Union

Summary:

Five years ago, huge impetus was given to the fight against discrimination in the European Union when new powers were granted to tackle discrimination on grounds of sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, age, disability and sexual orientation.

This Green Paper sets out the European Commission's analysis of the progress that has been made so far. It seeks views about how the EU can continue and reinforce its effort to combat discrimination and to promote equal treatment. In so doing, it responds to calls from the European Parliament and others to organise a public consultation on the future development of policy in
this area.

The European Parliament and civil society organisations have played a pivotal role in advancing the EU's anti-discrimination agenda to date. National authorities have also been of crucial importance in defining and delivering this policy agenda. Other stakeholders include specialised bodies responsible for the promotion of equality in the Member States, regional and local authorities, employers, trade unions, experts and academics.

The Commission hopes that all of the relevant stakeholders will play an active role in the consultation exercise launched by this Green Paper. Given the importance of anti-discrimination policies for everyone living in the European Union, the Commission would also welcome reactions from members of the public.