Reykjavík Declaration, 2023

Dignity and equality are the foundation of modern European societies.
We acknowledge the need to ensure equality and combat any kind of discrimination, as well as the important role the Organisation plays in this regard. We therefore commit to strengthening work towards inclusive societies without marginalisation, exclusion, racism and intolerance. 

Report Towards a new democratic pact for Europe

Equality, diversity and respect are the bedrock of democratic societies. When participation is unequal and discrimination persists, democracy weakens, giving way to polarisation, exclusion and authoritarianism.

The right to equality and non-discrimination is a cornerstone of the Universal Declaration of Rights (Article 1) and the European Convention on Human Rights (Article 14 and Article 1 of its Protocol No. 12). While it is well established in international and national law, and measures have been implemented in many member states, a gap remains between principles and practice—between formal (de jure) equality and actual (de facto) equality.

Background information

In 2024, CDADI agreed to map and further develop elements of equality mainstreaming at national and European level. Following the approval of this strand of work by the Committee of Ministers, CDADI established a working group on equality mainstreaming, which prepared a Guide and checklist for implementing equality mainstreaming.

  • Equality mainstreaming is the systematic incorporation of equality and anti-discrimination concerns into all stages of the policy process, including policy making, policy implementation and policy review.  

  • Equality is promoted through a dual approach (also known as "twin-track strategy"), which combines the systematic integration of equality perspectives into all policies (mainstreaming) with specific, targeted policies and actions designed to address particular inequalities.
  • Mainstreaming equality in public policy ensures that all significant public policies make an appropriate contribution to the objectives of equality and non-discrimination. Targeted policies and actions are tailored interventions that are implemented to prevent, eliminate or remedy specific inequalities that particular segments of the population are facing (e.g. LGBTI persons).
  • Redesigning and implementing equality mainstreaming requires participatory approaches, as it should respond to the needs and perspectives of specific groups, following the moto "Nothing about us without us". Mainstreaming the equality perspective should ensure that those at risk of discrimination are actively involved in policy development and decision-making.
  • Different mainstreaming efforts, notably gender mainstreaming and equality mainstreaming, are complementary and mutually reinforce each other from a human rights perspective. This complementarity is achieved through an intersectional approach, aiming for equality across all parts of society, especially for those who are at risk of multiple and intersectional discrimination and may be left behind.
Examples of equality mainstreaming in the Council of Europe