The European Year of Equal Opportunities for All 2007 is proud to announce its official partnership with the Eurovision Song Contest 2007. For the first time in almost twenty years, an official European Union initiative will be associated with this international music competition, connecting Europeans from all around the continent. The European Year's main objectives are to celebrate the benefits of diversity and promote equal opportunities for all.
Vladimír Špidla, EU Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities said: “The Eurovision Song Contest is a perfect platform for informing people about their rights to equal treatment and for spreading the benefits of diversity all around Europe. What better framework than a vibrant European-wide entertainment event bringing together all the different cultures and flavours of Europe?”
The EU anti-discrimination laws are amongst the most advanced in the world. Yet only one third of citizens know their rights should they become victims of discrimination. Meanwhile 64% of Europeans are of the opinion that discrimination is widespread in their country and 51% think not enough is being done to fight discrimination.
The European Year's activities at Eurovision will peak on Europe Day on Wednesday 9 May. Special attention will be paid to young people, offering them a platform to express their singing and dancing talents.
Information notes
2007 European Year of Equal Opportunities for All
Hundreds of activities are taking place across Europe. To find out what is happening in your country, see the attached document or visit the Year's website at http://equality2007.europa.eu.
The objectives of the 2007 European Year for Equal Opportunities for All are to inform Europeans of their right to non-discrimination and equal treatment, to give a new impetus to tackling discrimination effectively and to spark a lively debate on the benefits of diversity.
The 2007 European Year focuses on discrimination linked to gender, race or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation. These are all discrimination grounds that can be addressed within European laws.
(Communiques de presse - Rapid 24/04/2007)