“The COVID-19 pandemic has had, and will continue to have, a profound impact on the fundamental rights of everyone across the EU. Persistent inequalities, harassment and prejudices are likely to worsen,” says FRA Director Michael O’Flaherty. “Governments need to ensure planning for the ‘new normal’ to lead to a fair and just society that honours the dignity of everyone and ensures that no one is left behind.”
FRA’s Fundamental Rights Report 2020 reflects on the developments and shortfalls of human rights protection in the EU over the past year. Its focus section highlights how the EU’s Fundamental Rights Charter has gained visibility and sparked a new fundamental rights culture at EU level. But nationally, awareness and use of the Charter remain limited despite it being legally binding for 10 years. The insights presented will hopefully encourage others, including governments, to take ownership of this great instrument – and give it full force so that it can truly help transform people’s lives.
Other key issues identified include:
The report summarises and analyses major human rights developments in the EU over 2019. It contains proposals for action covering the EU’s Fundamental Rights Charter and its use by Member States; equality and non-discrimination; racism and related intolerance; Roma inclusion; asylum, borders and migration; information society, privacy and data protection; child rights; access to justice; and implementing the UN’s disability convention.
For more please contact: media@fra.europa.eu / Tel.: +43 1 580 30 653