Discrimination is an increasingly frequent human rights violation. Xenophobic rhetoric and hate speech targeting minorities, Roma and Travellers, migrants and others are becoming commonplace in political life and on social media. Building societies free from discrimination and hate is a prerequisite for safeguarding and realising genuine democracy. Common policy responses, based on the Council of Europe’s values, are needed to prevent and offset deeper divisions, mistrust and rejection of diversity that are undermining human rights, inclusion and democratic security of European societies.