21 June 2019

Challenges for progress towards equality

Fundamental Rights Report 2019: Efforts to advance equality moved ahead in some areas but remain stalled in others.

EU developments

  • Equal Treatment Directive still in deadlock after 10 years of negotiations in the Council of the EU. New EU financial instruments to support equality and non-discrimination proposed
  • Recommendation on standards for equality bodies highlights need to strengthen their effectiveness and independence

National developments

  • Studies in several Member States show persistent discrimination in employment and education on various grounds
  • Member States adopt action plans to improve LGBTI equality
  • Equality for same-sex families advances

Religious symbolism controversial

  • Laws banning religious clothing or symbols at work or in public spaces continue to be questioned in court in some Member States
  • 7/10 Jews avoid publically wearing Jewish clothing or symbols, finds FRA survey