Page 4 - Social_Diversity

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Introduction to the topic

Equality is the right of different groups of people to have a similar social position and to receive a similar
treatment (Cambridge dictionary).

This concept comes usually associated with the concept of Diversity which is,sociologically speaking, the
mixture of races and religions that make up a group of people (Cambridge dictionary). Such concepts can
also be related to the one of anti-discrimination and inclusion.

In Europe, the European Commission embraces the concepts of equality, diversity and social inclusion in
a pro-active manner. The aim is to instaure a culture where everyone is valued and respected. This can be
done through a serie of policies, measures and legislations.

Chapter 3 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights is dedicated to equality and include the following con-
cepts (Articles 20 to 26) : anti-disctimination ; cultural, religious and linguistic ; gender equality ; the rights
of children, the rights of seniors and the rights of persons with disabilities.

At the supra-national and national levels, European countries have signed inclusion and diversity charters.
These charters affirm the commitment in favour of diversity and inclusion of people, which must benefit
from equal treatment and opportunities, irrespective of any ground such as sex, race, colour, ethnic or
social origin, genetic features, language, religion or belief, political or any other opinion, membership of a
national minority, property, birth, disability, age or sexual orientation. In order to support in the implemen-
tation of the European Charter for Diversity and Inclusion (July 2017), the European Commission has creat-
ed the EU Platform of Diversity Charters and released a specific communication on a better workplace for
all equal opportunities towards diversity and inclusion (2017).

Regarding equality, at the national and supra national level, laws and directives have been applied for years
in order to protect people’s rights and fight against injustice. A list of relevant European directives on equal-
ity is at the disposal of the Citizens of the European Commission dedicated page on equality. As an entre-
preneur, you can also act in favour of diversity and inclusion, this module will dive deeper into this subject
in order to guide you.