While legislation prohibiting racial discrimination exists in all EU countries, experience shows that laws alone are not enough.
An EU survey from 2023 shows that more than half of respondents say there is widespread discrimination in their country on the basis of being Roma (65%), of skin colour (61%,) of ethnic origin (60%), of gender identity (being transgender, 57%) or sexual orientation (54%). Around one in five (21%) respondents say they have personally felt discriminated against or experienced harassment in the past 12 months. The most mentioned forms of discrimination or harassment are based on age, gender, “political opinions”, “socio-economic situation” and “general physical appearance”. Public spaces and work are the primary locations where discrimination or harassment happens.
Source: European Commission. (2019). Special Eurobarometer 493: Discrimination in the European Union. https://europa.eu/eurobarometer/surveys/detail/2972
What Are National Action Plans Against Racism (NAPAR)?
To achieve real, lasting change, countries need comprehensive, coordinated strategies-National Action Plans Against Racism (NAPAR)-that move beyond words and address the root causes and systemic nature of racism. NAPARs are government-led frameworks designed to combat racism and racial discrimination at the national level. They provide a roadmap for action, setting out clear objectives, measures, and timelines across key areas such as education, employment, law enforcement, housing, and health.
ParticipaCity game as highly relevant for National Action Plan Against Racism
National Action Plans Against Racism emphasize not only legal frameworks and policy measures but also the need for education, awareness-raising, and the development of practical tools that foster inclusion, empathy, and critical reflection on discrimination at all levels of society.
The Participa City game aligns directly with these objectives:
- Educational and preventive tool: The game uses realistic scenarios to help players recognize, reflect on, and respond to everyday racism and discrimination. This approach builds awareness and empathy-key goals highlighted in national and EU anti-racism strategies.
- Adaptability to local contexts: Partners in five European countries (German, Portugal, France, Sweden and Bulgaria) are adapting the game to address specific national challenges, ensuring cultural relevance and resonance with local realities. This supports the NAPAR principle of tailoring interventions to specific national and community needs.
- Targeting key stakeholders: The game is designed for use by educators, public administration staff, and decision-makers-groups identified in NAPARs as crucial multipliers who can influence broader institutional change.
- Empowering civil society and institutions: By equipping trainers and gatekeepers with practical tools, the game helps build the capacity of those working in anti-racism and diversity fields, a core component of effective action plans.
Participa City provides an innovative, evidence-based resource that supports the goals of National Action Plans Against Racism by promoting critical self-reflection, empathy, and practical skills for combating discrimination in everyday life and institutions. Its integration into national strategies would strengthen education and prevention efforts, making it a valuable asset for any country committed to meaningful anti-racism action.
