New EU agency calls for tough action on racism 

EU governments were today urged to step up their efforts in the fight against racism.

The newly-created Fundamental Rights Agency, which is based in Vienna, wants to use the upcoming 50th anniversary of the EU as an impetus to “turn principles into reality” when it comes to addressing racism.

"As we celebrate the EU’s birthday, nobody can remain neutral in the fight against racism," said Beate Winkler, the EU agency’s interim director.

"The European project was founded on peace and reconciliation in the aftermath of one of Europe’s darkest periods."

"We should not have to repeat this message in 50 years’ time."

Winkler is one of the keynote speakers taking part in a conference in Rome on Wednesday on "equal opportunities for all in employment and education".

21 March has been designated International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Ahead of the event, she added, "Our reports document how racism, discrimination and racist violence are a fact of life for many in Europe."

"As the EU has designated 2007 as the European Year of Equal Opportunities for All, we are calling on member state governments to intensify their efforts and to engage society at large to turn principles into reality."

"Tolerating inequality means denying people one of their fundamental rights – the right to live free from discrimination."

According to the agency’s figures, over nine million people, or 3 per cent of all inhabitants in the 18 EU countries surveyed, experienced racist crime in 2004.

Furthermore, a large proportion of Europeans (64 per cent) believe discrimination on the basis of ethnic origin is widespread in their country.

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