- European, US markets wobble awaiting Santa rally
- Serie A basement club Monza fire coach Nesta
- Mozambique top court confirms ruling party disputed win
- Biden commutes almost all federal death sentences
- Syrian medics say were coerced into false chemical attack testimony
- NASA solar probe to make its closest ever pass of Sun
- France's new government to be announced Monday evening: Elysee
- London toy 'shop' window where nothing is for sale
- Volkswagen boss hails cost-cutting deal but shares fall
- Accused killer of US insurance CEO pleads not guilty to 'terrorist' murder
- Global stock markets mostly higher
- Not for sale. Greenland shrugs off Trump's new push
- Sweden says China blocked prosecutors' probe of ship linked to cut cables
- Acid complicates search after deadly Brazil bridge collapse
- Norwegian Haugan dazzles in men's World Cup slalom win
- Arsenal's Saka out for 'many weeks' with hamstring injury
- Mali singer Traore child custody case postponed
- France mourns Mayotte victims amid uncertainy over government
- UK economy stagnant in third quarter in fresh setback
- Sweden says China denied request for prosecutors to probe ship linked to cut undersea cables
- African players in Europe: Salah leads Golden Boot race after brace
- Global stock markets edge higher as US inflation eases rate fears
- German far-right AfD to march in city hit by Christmas market attack
- Ireland centre Henshaw signs IRFU contract extension
- Bangladesh launches $5bn graft probe into Hasina's family
- US probes China chip industry on 'anticompetitive' concerns
- Biden commutes sentences for 37 of 40 federal death row inmates
- Clock ticks down on France government nomination
- 'Devastated' Australian tennis star Purcell provisionally suspended for doping
- Mozambique on edge as judges rule on disputed election
- Mobile cinema brings Tunisians big screen experience
- Philippines says to acquire US Typhon missile system
- Honda and Nissan to launch merger talks
- Police arrest suspect who set woman on fire in New York subway
- China vows 'cooperation' over ship linked to severed Baltic Sea cables
- Australian tennis star Purcell provisionally suspended for doping
- Asian markets track Wall St rally as US inflation eases rate fears
- Luxury Western goods line Russian stores, three years into sanctions
- Wallace and Gromit return with comic warning about AI dystopia
- Philippine military says will acquire US Typhon missile system
- Afghan bread, the humble centrepiece of every meal
- Honda and Nissan expected to begin merger talks
- 'Draconian' Vietnam internet law heightens free speech fears
- Israeli women mobilise against ultra-Orthodox military exemptions
- Asian markets track Wall St rally as US inflation eases rate worries
- Tens of thousands protest in Serbian capital over fatal train station accident
- Trump vows to 'stop transgender lunacy' as a top priority
- Daniels throws five TDs as Commanders down Eagles, Lions and Vikings win
- 'Who's next?': Misinformation and online threats after US CEO slaying
- Only 12 trucks delivered food, water in North Gaza Governorate since October: Oxfam
EU: Overcoming barriers to equality
The need to overcome barriers to equality in the EU and worldwide!
In a globalised world characterised by progress and innovation, equality remains one of the greatest challenges of our time. Despite numerous efforts, significant barriers that disadvantage people based on their gender, origin, religion, sexual orientation or other characteristics remain. It is essential for society in the European Union and worldwide to overcome these barriers to ensure a fairer and more prosperous future.
Equality as a cornerstone of democracy
Equality for all is a fundamental principle of democratic societies. It forms the basis for social justice and respect for human rights. In the European Union, equality is not only a moral imperative, but also enshrined in law. Nevertheless, statistics show that discrimination and inequality persist. For example, women in the EU earn on average 14.1% less than men, and minorities often face prejudice and disadvantage.
The economic benefits of equality
Overcoming barriers to equality is not only an ethical obligation, but also brings significant economic benefits. Studies have shown that countries with higher equality tend to have stronger economic growth. An inclusive labour market, where all talents are used regardless of gender or origin, leads to more innovation and productivity. In addition, equality reduces the costs arising from social tensions and inequalities.
Promoting social cohesion and peace
Inequality can lead to social unrest, conflict and instability. By removing barriers to equality, social cohesion is strengthened. A society in which all members have equal rights and opportunities is more resilient to extremism and intolerance. This is particularly important in a world facing global challenges such as migration, climate change and pandemics.
Identify and remove barriers
The barriers to equality are many and often deeply rooted in cultural norms and institutional structures. They include, among other things:
- Discriminatory laws: Some countries still have laws that disadvantage certain groups.
- Prejudices and stereotypes: Social attitudes can lead to people being discriminated against because of their gender, skin colour or other characteristics.
- Access to education and resources: Unequal access to education, healthcare and financial resources widens the gap between different social groups.
- Violence and harassment: Physical and psychological violence against certain groups is a significant barrier to equality.
Measures to promote equality - Overcoming these barriers requires a coordinated effort at various levels
- Political reforms: Governments need to enact and enforce laws that prohibit discrimination and promote equality.
- Education and awareness: Educational programmes can reduce prejudice and create awareness of the importance of equality.
- Economic empowerment: Initiatives to support disadvantaged groups in accessing the labour market and financial resources are crucial.
- International cooperation: Global challenges require global solutions. The EU can take a leading role here and share best practices.
Conclusion:
Overcoming obstacles to equality is of central importance for a just, peaceful and prosperous society. It is the shared responsibility of governments, institutions, companies and each individual to actively participate in this change. Only through consistent efforts can we create a world in which all people enjoy the same opportunities and rights – for the benefit of the European Union and the entire global community.