More than 60% of people in European countries consider discrimination based on skin colour or ethnic origin to be a serious problem.
Data from the European Commission shows that 61% of Europeans believe discrimination on the basis of skin colour is widespread in their countries, while 60% consider discrimination on the basis of ethnicity to be a serious problem.
The survey by the European Commission, which polled some 26,000 people from 27 EU member states, found that despite years of efforts by the union and comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, problems related to social equality and prejudice persist.
The study highlights that discrimination against people of different colour or ethnic origin is seen as a widespread problem, with reports showing an increase in discrimination cases compared to previous years.
According to the survey, 21% of participants reported experiencing discrimination or bullying in the last 12 months, with skin colour, ethnicity, age and socio-economic status among the most commonly cited reasons for discrimination in Europe.
The study also emphasises that discrimination and bullying in Europe is most common in public places or workplaces.
Among European countries, discrimination on ethnic grounds is most common in the Netherlands (82 per cent), followed by France (77 per cent), Italy (75 per cent), Sweden (73 per cent) and Belgium (69 per cent).
France leads in the number of religion-based discrimination
Across the EU, 42% of participants believe that discrimination based on religion or belief is widespread in their countries, although 53% believe it is rare.
France tops the list of countries where discrimination based on religion and belief is considered widespread, with 66% of participants noting this problem.
France is followed by Belgium (60 %), Sweden (58 %), the Netherlands (54 %) and the Cypriot administration (53 %), countries where discrimination on religious grounds is considered a widespread problem.
In order to effectively combat racism and discrimination, the EU’s Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) calls on EU countries to more effectively implement legislation in this area and to raise awareness of equality bodies for people of African descent. Countries should also ensure that these institutions are adequately resourced to combat discrimination and support victims.
Other recommendations include supporting full socio-economic integration, promoting the recognition of foreigners’ qualifications, developing policies in education, health care, and combating discrimination in the housing market.
