PRINT

Advancing the Global Fight Against Racism: The EU Anti-Racism Strategy 2026-2030

The European Union hosted a side event to the Human Rights Council, on the contribution of the EU Anti-Racism Strategy 2026-2030 to the global fight against racism. The discussion brought together representatives from the European Union, the United Nations, regional organisations and EU Member States to exchange views on combating racial discrimination and advancing equality, inclusion and human dignity in society.

EU Anti-Racism Strategy - Side Event to HRC62
© EU Delegation, 2026

 

The opening remarks were delivered by Peggy Hicks, Director at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), while the discussion was moderated by Ambassador Deike Potzel, EU Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva. The panel featured Michaela Moua, EU Anti-Racism Coordinator, Ambassador James Waweru of the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Kenya and Chair-Rapporteur of the Intergovernmental Working Group on the Implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, as well as representatives from UNESCO and the Council of Europe.

 “Racism is not only a persistent reality within our borders, it is also a global challenge with deep historical roots. From colonialism to the Holocaust, Europe's past continues to shape present-day inequalities. That is why this Strategy combines action at home with strong international partnerships, recognising that combating racism requires both a reckoning with history and a commitment to human rights worldwide.” | Michaela Moua, EU Anti-Racism Coordinator

The new EU Anti-Racism Strategy, adopted in January and marking a new phase in the European Union’s efforts to combat racism and racial discrimination, was presented at the Side Event. As part of the broader vision of a Union of Equality, the Strategy aims to strengthen the implementation of anti-discrimination legislation to address structural racism and promote inclusion across society to ensure equal opportunities for all.

EU Anti-Racism Strategy - Side Event to HRC62

EU Delegation, 2026

The event highlighted the importance of tackling racism in all its forms, including through stronger action against hate speech and hate crime, support for equality bodies and civil society organisations, improved equality data collection, and efforts to address emerging challenges such as algorithmic and AI-driven discrimination. The discussion also highlighted the importance of ensuring that diversity and inclusion are reflected across public institutions, education systems, the media, sports and the workplace.

A particular focus was placed the role of education in addressing the root causes of racism and discrimination - in this regard, panellists explored how greater awareness of historical legacies can help challenge stereotypes, prejudice and structural inequalities that continue to shape societies today. Education was identified as a key tool for fostering understanding, promoting inclusion and strengthening respect for human rights. The discussion also situated the EU’s efforts within the broader international framework for combating racism, including the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) and the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action.

Racial discrimination continues to affect millions of people worldwide, limiting access to education, employment, housing, healthcare and participation in public life. The European Union remains firmly committed to combating racism in all its forms and to working with international partners to build societies where diversity is valued, equality is upheld and everyone can participate fully and equally in society.