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Urgent action required to combat growing racism in EU

Thursday, 25 June 2020 1:06 AM [ Last Update: Thursday, 25 June 2020 1:06 AM ]

Jerome Hughes
Press TV, Brussels

Xenophobia means a dislike of people from other countries. However, the vast majority of individuals who experience racism and discrimination in the EU were actually born in the country in which they were targeted. There is ample evidence that racism is on the rise within the 27-nation bloc. It's claimed urgent action is required.

The European Commission has just launched an anti-racism initiative. It involves developing an action plan to secure equality for ethnic and racial minorities, a study into the root causes of discrimination, and working with media to avoid the perpetuation of negative stereotypes and biases. We have been getting the views of citizens on the subject.

Financial crises always fuel xenophobia, racism, religious intolerance and extreme politics. Rights campaigners say that is why it is so important for EU leaders to try and minimize the impact of the current COVID-19 economic emergency.

The European Commission admits, in the EU, racism acts as a barrier to housing, education and public services. The point has been made, people are not born racist. So, education as early as possible in a child's life is seen as crucial.

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