Racism and intolerance are becoming rooted in European societies as the economic crisis gives strength to extremist messages, warns Europe's leading anti-racist body today. The European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI), which monitors the situation in each of the Council of Europe 47 member States, in its latest annual report says that racism is no longer limited to the fringes of society and that mainstream politicians are increasingly using xenophobic and anti-Muslim arguments and calling referenda targeting non-citizens and religious minorities. "Legal means alone do not seem sufficient to counter this trend. More needs to be done," the report states.

"ECRI's investigations in all European countries are showing a worrying pattern of rising racism. Governments need to be aware of the threat, work to strengthen laws and institutions against discrimination and give a clear message that xenophobia can never be tolerated in modern society," ECRI's Chair Nils Muiznieks said.