Why the Commission wants to tackle inequalities
Inequality is a complex and multidimensional phenomenon that refers to differences between individuals or groups. Inequalities threaten social and territorial cohesion, economic growth and well-being, as well as democratic, social and political participation and inclusion.
Tackling inequalities is key to achieve the 17 United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). In particular, SDG 10 aims to reduce inequalities that persist within and among countries and that are based on income, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, race, class, ethnicity, religion and opportunity by 2030.
The socioeconomic model of the EU already includes a strong legal framework and active policies to fight poverty and promote access to quality care, education and employment, which have resulted in low levels of inequality compared to other world regions.
Europe can create a fairer society and social model by promoting equality and inclusion, and by defending and upholding the rights of minorities, By doing this, we can draw on all talents and potential to build a sustainable, prosperous and secure future.
That is why, tackling inequalities is a political priority for the European Commission. The European Pillar of Social Rights sets out the actions through which the EU will work to achieve a strong social Europe that is fair and with equal opportunities for all.
To seize the opportunities emerging from socio-economic transformations, including the digital and green transitions, in a strongly connected and integrated world, these challenges need to be better understood and tackled.
Horizon Europe, in particular through its Cluster 2: Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Society, supports research and innovation actions which address social, economic, special, gender and cultural inequalities and which contribute to the development of evidence-based policies aiming to reduce such inequalities.
Persons with disabilities
The European Commission’s Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021-2030 ensures the full participation in society of persons with disabilities, on an equal basis with others in the EU and beyond, in line with the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, which establish equality and non-discrimination as cornerstones of EU policies.
The past decades brought progress for persons with disabilities in access to healthcare, education, employment, recreation activities and participation in political life. But many obstacles remain to ensure their right to take part in all areas of life. The Commission is funding research to understand and address inequalities and disabilities.
Projects working on this include
- the LAUREL (€2.7 million) and LETS-CARE (€2.8 million) projects, tackling aspects of long-term care
- the PROSPERH (€5.7 million) and WELAR (€2.9 million) projects, tackling aspects related to employment
- the EMPOWER (€3.6 million) and SMOOTH (€2.9 million) projects, tackling aspects related to special and inclusive education
Related links
Gender equality strategy as it relates to the European Research Area (ERA), She Figures report, networks and publications.