The Award is open to all local authorities in the EU that build fairer societies by promoting diversity and inclusion in terms of: gender, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age, LGBTQ+ identity.
The participation of Greek cities such as Piraeus and Livadia , already in 2024, is a special recognition for our country, highlighting the efforts made at the local level to create more inclusive societies.
The European Commission is organising the “European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity” Awards again this year, with the aim of highlighting and rewarding cities that are actively working to create more inclusive and just societies. This event, which is part of the European Action Plan against Racism and the Strategy for LGBTQI+ Equality, seeks to highlight best practices that promote diversity and inclusion in various sectors.
Categories and Criteria
The awards are divided into two main categories: local authorities with fewer than 50,000 inhabitants and local authorities with more than 50,000 inhabitants. In addition, for 2025, a special award will be awarded for “inclusive housing”. Three winners will be selected in each main category, while the special award will be awarded regardless of the size of the local authority.
The evaluation of the applications is carried out by independent experts and European committees, which examine initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in various areas, such as gender, age, disability, LGBTQ+ identity, religion or belief and racial or ethnic origin. Particular emphasis is given to initiatives that comprehensively address various forms of discrimination and apply an intersectional approach.
Application Schedule and Procedure
The application period for the 2025 awards has closed on February 7, 2025. The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony to be held on April 29, 2025.
Winners 2024
In 2024, the winners came from five EU countries and included cities such as Zagreb, Växjö kommun, La Laguna, Corbetta, Miranda de Ebro, Casares and Ljubljana, highlighting the diversity of initiatives being implemented across Europe.
Objective and Impact
The European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Awards are not just a recognition, but also a platform for exchanging best practices and promoting a fairer and more inclusive Europe. The winners act as role models, inspiring other cities and regions to adopt innovative policies and actions that promote equality and diversity.
