STRASBOURG
A strategy to prevent racism and intolerance in Europe was discussed in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe on Wednesday.
A special report compiled by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA), addressed the substantial rise in racist speeches, hate crimes and intolerance toward foreigners in the EU states over the last 10 years.
The report also drew attention to racist expressions triggering by hate speeches used in daily life and social media.
According to the report, between 16 and 32 percent of Romani’s are exposed to racist violence within the EU states, and between 19 and 32 percent of people from Africa are subjected to xenophobia.
A project called 'Young People Combating Hate Speeches Online' is expected to raise awareness among young people aged between 13 and 30; it is hoped that the project will combat racism and discrimination online.
The report concluded that law making and policies are not the only solutions to tackle racism and hatred, and that raising awareness by addressing human rights and education is vital in combatting racism.
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