The protection of citizens’ fundamental rights in the European Union is under serious threat, according to the 2024 annual report of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA), published on Wednesday 5 June.
Rising poverty, persistent threats to democracy, increasing racism and the challenges posed by migration are identified as the main causes.
Poverty. The rising cost of living and energy has plunged one in five people in the EU into poverty. Despite support measures, children and vulnerable households are the hardest hit.
28% of children in the EU now live below the poverty line, an increase of 5% on the previous year.
Threats to democracy. The report also highlights the interference by several States that threatens the space for civil society, in particular the rights to freedom of association, peaceful assembly and expression.
In 2023, 15 European countries recorded a significant reduction in civic space and 10% of non-governmental organisations reported increased administrative obstacles.
These restrictions, combined with disinformation, undermine the foundations of democracy.
Hate and discrimination. An alarming increase in racism and intolerance is also noted. Anti-Semitic attacks increased by 40% after Hamas’ terrorist attacks in Israel in October 2023 and Israel’s military response in Gaza.
Muslims, people of African origin, Roma and migrants are increasingly targeted by hatred and discrimination.
In 2023, 25% of Roma said they had experienced discrimination, a figure unchanged from 2016.
Digital divide. The rapid digitalisation of public services and the growing use of artificial intelligence present risks for vulnerable groups.
Only 32% of people aged 65 to 74 have basic digital skills, compared with 55% of the adult population as a whole.
The report warns of the risks of algorithmic discrimination, which could exacerbate the social exclusion of the elderly, the disabled, the homeless and the Roma.
Faced with these issues, FRA is calling on the European Union and its Member States to take concrete action. In a press release, FRA Director Sirpa Rautio urges them to “pull together” to guarantee a “secure and inclusive future” that respects the rights of all.
The report: https://aeur.eu/f/ckp (Original version in French by Nithya Paquiry)