IP/10/1550
Brussels, 24 November 2010
Equality: Commission welcomes compliance with EU race equality rules in Latvia and Sweden; closes infringement cases
The European Commission has welcomed the notification by Latvia and Sweden of measures to ensure compliance with EU rules prohibiting discrimination in employment and occupation on the grounds of race and ethnic origin (Directive 2000/43/EC, see MEMO/07/257). The Commission is now satisfied that both countries have taken adequate measures to implement the EU legislation, which aims to ensure that people receive equal treatment in the workplace, whatever their race or ethnic origin. The Commission has therefore closed the infringement proceedings against both Member States.
The Commission brought infringement proceedings against Latvia and Sweden following shortcomings in their national measures to implement the EU Directive (see IP/07/928 and MEMO/07/257).
Background
Directive 2000/43/EC of 29 June 2000 implements the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of racial or ethnic origin ("Racial Equality Directive"). This Directive covers direct and indirect discrimination, as well as harassment, in the fields of employment, vocational training, education, social protection (including social security and health care), social advantages and access to goods and services (including housing).
Further information
EU anti-discrimination legislation
http://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=612&langId=en
Homepage of Vice-President Viviane Reding, Commissioner for Justice,
Fundamental Rights and Citizenship:
http://ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014/reding/index_en.htm
For more information about EU infringement procedures, see MEMO/10/605
