The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) released a report on Wednesday revealing that racism against people of African descent is increasing in the European Union (EU). The survey, which covered 13 member states and included first- and second-generation black immigrants, found that over one-third of the 6,700 respondents reported experiencing racial discrimination within the past year. This marks a ten percentage point increase since the last survey six years ago.
In a press release, Michael O’Flaherty, director of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, expressed shock at the lack of improvement since the previous survey. He emphasized that people of African descent are facing more discrimination solely because of the color of their skin.
The findings of the report revealed a sharp rise in racist abuse in Germany and Austria, with approximately 64% of respondents in both countries reporting recent experiences of racial discrimination. This marks a 33% increase since the previous survey, indicating that reports of racial abuse have doubled in the past six years. On the other hand, France, Luxembourg, and Portugal had fewer reports of racism compared to the previous survey.
The report highlighted that black immigrants in EU countries face various difficulties, including discrimination in securing housing and employment, as well as aggressive harassment that can result in deep trauma. O’Flaherty stressed that racism has no place in Europe and that it is both shocking and shameful to be confronted with the true scale of racism. He called for action on equality and inclusion for people of African descent.
Additionally, the report showed that one in four black people said they had been stopped by the police in the past five years, with approximately half stating that they believed this was due to racial profiling. The study also revealed that young black people are more likely to leave education early compared to their white counterparts.
Despite these alarming findings, the authors of the report noted that many instances of racism in Europe remain invisible. Incidents of racial discrimination, harassment, and violence often go unreported, leaving people’s voices unheard.
The survey covered black people residing in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden.
The report serves as a reminder that racism is an ongoing issue in the EU and emphasizes the need for continued efforts to combat discrimination and promote equality for all.
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