Challenges for progress towards equality

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