Policy context
Equality and non-discrimination are core values of the EU and have strong foundations in the EU treaties and the EU charter of fundamental rights. In addition, the EU has enacted equal treatment directives, such as the Racial Equality Directive and the Employment Equality Directive.
In defining and implementing its policies and activities, the EU aims to combat discrimination based on the 6 main grounds protected under EU treaties and legislation: sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age, and sexual orientation.
The European Commission is engaged in achieving a so-called Union of Equality. To reach this goal it has adopted several policy initiatives, such as:
- gender equality strategy 2020-2025
- EU anti-racism action plan 2020-2025
- EU Roma strategic framework for equality, inclusion and participation 2020-2030
- LGBTIQ equality strategy 2020-2025
- strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities 2021-2030
- EU strategy on combating antisemitism and fostering Jewish life 2021-2030
- EU strategy on the rights of the child 2022-2027
Statistics on equality are part of the monitoring of EU policy frameworks, such as the sustainable development goals and the European pillar of social rights.