For policy makers to take considered decisions on means to combat racism, they need information from the ground in addition to their knowledge of international and European legislation. FRA research provides evidence of racism and related intolerances, as well as the unequal treatment of ethnic minorities, while the agency’s studies also supply information about the fight against discrimination in key areas of social life.

All EU member states have accepted the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD). They are therefore obliged to prevent, prohibit and eradicate all forms of racial discrimination and incitement to racial hatred.

The EU’s Charter of Fundamental Rights prohibits discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, ethnic origin and religion or belief. The EU has passed detailed legislation that addresses discrimination in various areas of life. Member states are also bound to combat public incitement to violence and hatred against people of different race, colour, religion, or national or ethnic descent by means of criminal law.