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Kenya's economy faces climate change risks: World Bank
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Penguins queue in Paris zoo for their bird flu jabs
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Sri Lanka issues fresh landslide warnings as toll nears 500
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Stocks, dollar rise before key US inflation data
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After wins abroad, Syria leader must gain trust at home
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Markets rise ahead of US data, expected Fed rate cut
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German factory orders rise more than expected
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Flooding kills two as Vietnam hit by dozens of landslides
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Italy to open Europe's first marine sanctuary for dolphins
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Hong Kong university suspends student union after calls for fire justice
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Asian markets rise ahead of US data, expected Fed rate cut
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Georgia's street dogs stir affection, fear, national debate
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Pandas and ping-pong: Macron ending China visit on lighter note
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TikTok to comply with 'upsetting' Australian under-16 ban
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Pentagon endorses Australia submarine pact
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Softbank's Son says super AI could make humans like fish, win Nobel Prize
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OpenAI strikes deal on US$4.6 bn AI centre in Australia
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Rains hamper Sri Lanka cleanup after deadly floods
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Unchecked mining waste taints DR Congo communities
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Asian markets mixed ahead of US data, expected Fed rate cut
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French almond makers revive traditions to counter US dominance
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Aid cuts causing 'tragic' rise in child deaths, Bill Gates tells AFP
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Abortion in Afghanistan: 'My mother crushed my stomach with a stone'
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Mixed day for US equities as Japan's Nikkei rallies
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To counter climate denial, UN scientists must be 'clear' about human role: IPCC chief
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Facebook 'supreme court' admits 'frustrations' in 5 years of work
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South Africa says wants equal treatment, after US G20 exclusion
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One in three French Muslims say suffer discrimination: report
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Microsoft faces complaint in EU over Israeli surveillance data
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Milan-Cortina organisers rush to ready venues as Olympic flame arrives in Italy
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Truth commission urges Finland to rectify Sami injustices
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Stocks rise eyeing series of US rate cuts
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Italy sweatshop probe snares more luxury brands
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EU hits Meta with antitrust probe over WhatsApp AI features
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Russia's Putin heads to India for defence, trade talks
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South Africa telecoms giant Vodacom to take control of Kenya's Safaricom
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Markets mixed as traders struggle to hold Fed cut rally
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Asian markets mixed as traders struggle to hold Fed cut rally
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In Turkey, ancient carved faces shed new light on Neolithic society
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Asian markets stumble as traders struggle to hold Fed cut rally
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Nintendo launches long-awaited 'Metroid Prime 4' sci-fi blaster
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Trump scraps Biden's fuel-economy standards, sparking climate outcry
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US stocks rise as weak jobs data boosts rate cut odds
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Poor hiring data points to US economic weakness
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Germany to host 2029 women's Euros
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Satellite surge threatens space telescopes, astronomers warn
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Greek govt warns farmers not to escalate subsidy protest
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EU agrees deal to ban Russian gas by end of 2027
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Former king's memoirs hits bookstores in Spain
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German lithium project moves ahead in boost for Europe's EV sector
EU: Overcoming barriers to equality
The need to overcome barriers to equality in the EU and worldwide!
In a globalised world characterised by progress and innovation, equality remains one of the greatest challenges of our time. Despite numerous efforts, significant barriers that disadvantage people based on their gender, origin, religion, sexual orientation or other characteristics remain. It is essential for society in the European Union and worldwide to overcome these barriers to ensure a fairer and more prosperous future.
Equality as a cornerstone of democracy
Equality for all is a fundamental principle of democratic societies. It forms the basis for social justice and respect for human rights. In the European Union, equality is not only a moral imperative, but also enshrined in law. Nevertheless, statistics show that discrimination and inequality persist. For example, women in the EU earn on average 14.1% less than men, and minorities often face prejudice and disadvantage.
The economic benefits of equality
Overcoming barriers to equality is not only an ethical obligation, but also brings significant economic benefits. Studies have shown that countries with higher equality tend to have stronger economic growth. An inclusive labour market, where all talents are used regardless of gender or origin, leads to more innovation and productivity. In addition, equality reduces the costs arising from social tensions and inequalities.
Promoting social cohesion and peace
Inequality can lead to social unrest, conflict and instability. By removing barriers to equality, social cohesion is strengthened. A society in which all members have equal rights and opportunities is more resilient to extremism and intolerance. This is particularly important in a world facing global challenges such as migration, climate change and pandemics.
Identify and remove barriers
The barriers to equality are many and often deeply rooted in cultural norms and institutional structures. They include, among other things:
- Discriminatory laws: Some countries still have laws that disadvantage certain groups.
- Prejudices and stereotypes: Social attitudes can lead to people being discriminated against because of their gender, skin colour or other characteristics.
- Access to education and resources: Unequal access to education, healthcare and financial resources widens the gap between different social groups.
- Violence and harassment: Physical and psychological violence against certain groups is a significant barrier to equality.
Measures to promote equality - Overcoming these barriers requires a coordinated effort at various levels
- Political reforms: Governments need to enact and enforce laws that prohibit discrimination and promote equality.
- Education and awareness: Educational programmes can reduce prejudice and create awareness of the importance of equality.
- Economic empowerment: Initiatives to support disadvantaged groups in accessing the labour market and financial resources are crucial.
- International cooperation: Global challenges require global solutions. The EU can take a leading role here and share best practices.
Conclusion:
Overcoming obstacles to equality is of central importance for a just, peaceful and prosperous society. It is the shared responsibility of governments, institutions, companies and each individual to actively participate in this change. Only through consistent efforts can we create a world in which all people enjoy the same opportunities and rights – for the benefit of the European Union and the entire global community.