The European Union with decision n. 771/2006/CE has designated 2007 as the European Year of Equal Opportunities for All -Towards a Just Society. This directive was in support of efforts to create European legislation on equality of treatment and non-discrimination; taking into account the different ways men and women are subjected to discrimination. This act is the result of European legislation against discrimination based on gender, race or ethnic origin, religion and personal beliefs, disability, age and sexual orientation; it is considered one of the most advanced pieces of legislation on the matter. It is with this intent that the European Union proposes that member states, as well as employers' and trade union groups, institutions, organisations and association; inform, reflect and stimulate discussion through events which will contribute towards the following objectives:
-Rights: Inform on the rights of all to equality and non-discrimination and on the eventuality of multiple discriminations. The European Year will offer the possibility of informing citizens that all have the right to equality of treatment.
-Representativeness: Promote debate on the possibility of increasing social representation of groups that are subjected to discrimination as well as promoting a balanced partecipation in public life of men and women.
-Recognition: To favour and highlight diversity and equality. The European Year will underline the benefits that diversity brings to society and the positive contributions it brings.
-Respect: To promote a more just society. The European Year will inform citizens on the importance of eleminating stereotypes, prejudices and violence. It will favour enighbourly relations between all members of society, in particular among the young and will promote the values which support the struggle against discrimination.
The European Year of Equal Opportunities for All was officially inaugurated on the 30th of January 2007 in Berlin during the Equality Summit & Opening Conference, an initiative organised by the European Commision and the German Presidency of the EU. Present were numerous European ministers, representatives from several equal opportunities institutions, trade unions, employers' organisations and NGOs. Italy has designated the Department for Right and Equal Opportunities in the Prime Minister's Cabinet as the body responsible for implemementing directives and events at the national level.
Website for the European Year of Equal Opportunities for All:
http://ec.europa.eu/employment_social/eyeq