Equinet Highlights 2022

2022 marked a significant breakthrough on Equinet’s long-standing goal to strengthen the institutional capacity, powers, independence and effectiveness of Equality Bodies. Equinet and Equality Bodies provided an evidence base and substantial support to the preparatory works of legally binding EU standards for Equality Bodies, which culminated in the European Commission’s release of legislative proposals in December 2022.

Beyond working to strengthen Equality Bodies institutionally, Equinet continued building the capacity of staff members and promoting their work. This was done mainly through actions that focus on the powers and activities of Equality Bodies in three main areas: assistance to victims, advice and policy work, prevention and promotion.

Highlights include work on:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Sanctions and remedies
• Mental health and psychosocial disabilities
• Expanding anti-discrimination protection in the EU
• Pay Transparency
• Equality Bodies contributing to EU equality strategies
• Hard-to-reach groups’ engagement
• Investing in equality
• Online presence of Equality Bodies

Finally, Equinet also developed and adopted a four-years roadmap for our Network, with a new Strategic Plan 2023-2026. It will guide Equinet’s continued commitment to support National Equality Bodies in their vital work, promote diversity and inclusion, combat discrimination, advance social justice, and strive toward more equality for all in Europe.