«United in diversity». So says the motto of the European Union, and to keep it true, the European Commission encourages local authorities to promote actions, programs and initiatives aimed at keeping the foundation of the integration project alive. 2022 wants to be the beginning of a path, made up of aggregation. Because sustainability is not just respect for the environment, but in everyday life it is above all respect for those with different habits. Whoever manages to break down barriers and overcome the concept of diversity will be able to boast the title of “European capital of inclusion and diversity”.
Every year the EU promotes the territory with various kinds of initiatives. One of the best known is the one that wants different capitals of culture. With 2022, however, the project for social cohesion starts, with two distinct categories: urban centers with less than 50,000 inhabitants, urban centers of 50,000 or more. For everyone, the task is the same: to demonstrate that you know how to fight any form of discrimination (sex, race or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation).
Participation is voluntary, there is a site where you can apply by February 15th. Moreover, you can also run at no cost. Because there is no need for new expenses. The examples of social sustainability “may have already been implemented or be in the process of being implemented,” the European Commission specifies.
The particularity of the initiative is explained for reasons above all. The European Commission is not giving away any money. The winning city will not receive funding, and it is known that local authorities – especially in Italy where there is also an internal stability pact – may have difficulty in finding resources for functioning and extra activities. Therefore, “outdated” but still successful initiatives can also be presented.
“With the Inclusion and Diversity Awards, the outstanding work done by communities and cities will be recognized and highlighted as a source of inspiration for others,” recalls Commissioner for Equality, Helena Dalli.
But with no money at stake then what is the “return” for any participating city that wins? In addition to wearing the plaque, the winners will be provided with an electronic logo to promote the victory, but with it also the territory and local reality. The Gold Award winners will be advertised through special short videos in English on the Award website and in post-event promotion activities on various social media platforms of the European Commission services. A return to visibility with which to increase tourist flows and increase the chances of attracting private investors. In the name of integration and the spirit behind the European Union.
The project acquires an even stronger significance in light of the health crisis and the measures taken to try to contain it. Confinements, quarantines and distancing certainly do not help integration and aggregation. This is also why the new EU initiative wants to be promoted as soon as possible. Applications will close at 12 noon on February 15th, to proceed to the awards ceremony on April 28th.