10 December 2009 – Human Rights Day

The Human Rights Day focuses on non-discrimination with the motto “Embrace diversity, end discrimination”. While the Universal Declaration of Human Rights establishes that “all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights”, millions around the globe face discrimination in their daily lives.  Discrimination on grounds such as sex, racial and ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation is incompatible with the basic principles on which the European Union is founded.  The prohibition of discrimination is enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights. The EU is committed to fight against all forms of discrimination both in the EU and worldwide.

Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy declared: “The European Union and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights are united in their desire and efforts to make discrimination a feature of the past. The Commission is one of the most important contributors to the voluntary budget of the OHCHR through the Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights. This is a clear expression of our determination to join forces with the OHCHR in the fight against discrimination both in the EU and worldwide.”

Vice-President Jacques Barrot, Commissioner for Justice, Freedom and Security said: “Racism and xenophobia are a violation of human rights and fundamental freedoms, which are principles upon which the European Union is founded and common to the Member States. There is no place for racism and xenophobia in Europe; nor should there be in any other part of the world. Dialogue and understanding should overcome hatred and provocation.”

Vladimír Špidla, Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities added: “Discrimination represents a waste of talent and a denial of fundamental rights. Equality and non-discrimination are not luxuries reserved for times of economic growth. With unemployment rising and the risk of poverty and exclusion increasing in the current economic recession, the EU and the Member States need to strengthen their commitment to equal opportunities more than ever. Tackling all forms of discrimination has been a priority for this Commission and for me personally”.