EU Elections 2024: Racialised Communities at Risk Without Firm Human Rights Commitments 

• The future of racialised communities in Europe is at risk, so is the future of Europe, if nothing is done against increasing racism  
• Parties and candidates need to seriously address narratives and policies by politicians and government officials that scapegoat and vilify racialised groups 
• Kim Smouter, ENAR Executive Director: “Racialised communities in Europe are facing increasingly harsher realities as hateful rhetoric and discriminatory policies become the norm.” 
• ENAR launches ‘A Europe for All’ Roadmap for Change Manifesto 
• Kim Smouter: “By pledging their support, [politicial parties/candidates] signal their commitment to creating a Europe where everyone can thrive.” 

Brussels, Belgium – 22 February 2024

The upcoming European Elections are approaching amid a complex political landscape marked by the rise of far-right factions, populist sentiments, and movements challenging democratic values. In response to these challenges, the European Network Against Racism (ENAR), with the support of its member organisations, is launching the ‘A Europe for All’ Roadmap for Change Manifesto.

The manifesto is a call to action urging political parties and Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to pledge their support in the fight against racism across Europe. In simple terms, it lays out 10 concrete actions necessary to prioritise racial justice as a key political goal during election campaigns and upcoming mandates.  

Kim Smouter, ENAR Executive Director, emphasised the urgency of the situation, stating, “Racialised communities in Europe are facing increasingly harsh realities as hateful rhetoric and discriminatory policies become the norm. As we prepare for the elections, what we’re asking from political leaders is simple: stand up for Europe’s values for justice and equity and commit to fighting discrimination.” 

ENAR’s ‘A Europe For All’ Roadmap for Change is a call to action for a more inclusive and sustainable Europe. Policymakers, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), and the general public are invited to support our full Manifesto and join ENAR for racial justice and equality.

“As a testament to our unwavering commitment to addressing the pressing issues of discrimination and exclusion, we are actively inviting European political parties and candidates to endorse the Manifesto. A Europe for All is not just a dream, but a reality that we must work towards. By pledging their support, they signal their commitment to creating a Europe where everyone can thrive,” concluded Kim Smouter. 

For more information on ‘A Europe for All: Roadmap for Change’ Manifesto and to join ENAR in the fight against racism, please visit: https://www.enar-eu.org/enar-eu-elections-manifesto-europe-for-all/ . 

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For more information or to arrange an interview, contact:      

Nabil Sanaullah, ENAR Communications and Press Manager   

Mobile: +32 (0)487 400 423 – Email: nabil@enar-eu.org – Web: www.enar–eu.org  

Notes to editors:     

• The European Network Against Racism (ENAR aisbl) stands against racism and discrimination and advocates equality and solidarity for all in Europe. We connect local and national anti-racist NGOs throughout Europe and voice the concerns of ethnic and religious minorities in European and national policy debate  
• ENAR launches ‘A Europe for All: Roadmap for Change’ Manifesto available here.