PROGRESS, the EU’s employment and social solidarity programme

Initiatives to combat discrimination and make sure that EU legislation is properly implemented are funded through PROGRESS, the EU’s employment and social solidarity programme. These activities include projects to raise awareness among the public, information campaigns to reach out to citizens, research studies, training, and support to European networks of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working in anti-discrimination.

Non-discrimination is only one strand of the programme which supports the work of national governments in promoting more and better jobs and equal opportunities for all in the EU. Running from 2007-2013, PROGRESS also funds activities around the areas of: Employment, Social inclusion and protection, Working conditions, and Gender equality.

With a budget of € 743,25 million over seven years, PROGRESS is open to the 27 EU Member States, EU candidate and EFTA/EEA countries. It targets national governments, local and regional authorities, public employment services and national statistics offices. Specialised bodies, universities and research institutes, as well as the social partners NGOs can also participate.

Community Action Programme to combat Discrimination 2001 - 2006

PROGRESS replaces the Community Action Programme to combat Discrimination which finished in 2006. The programme supported activities including studies on discrimination issues, networks and organisations which promote the exchange information and good practice across the EU, as well as initiatives to raise people's awareness, inform them of their rights and obligations under the law, and challenge discriminatory attitudes and behaviour.

“For Diversity. Against Discrimination.” Information Campaign

The “For Diversity. Against Discrimination.” information campaign has been funded through both programmes as part of their awareness-raising activities. More information on the types of activities funded through PROGRESS is available on the website of the European Commission, Directorate General for Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities.