On 7th March 2008, the EC published its official text of the Council decision of 28 February 2008 implementing Regulation (EC) No 168/2007 as regards the adoption of a Multi-annual Framework for the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights for 2007-2012.

By agreement with this decision a Multi-annual Framework for the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights for 2007-2012 has been established. The main objectives will be for the Agency to ensure appropriate cooperation and coordination with relevant Community bodies, offices and agencies, Member States, international organisations and civil society.

It shall also take into account that the overall objectives of the European Institute for Gender Equality in order to contribute to and strengthen the promotion of gender equality, including gender mainstreaming in all Community policies and the resulting national policies, and the fight against discrimination based on sex and to raise EU citizens' awareness of gender equality by providing technical assistance to Community institutions, in particular to the Commission and the authorities of the Member States.

The thematic areas shall be the following:

1. Racism, xenophobia and related intolerance.
2. Discrimination based on sex, race or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation and against persons belonging to minorities and any combination of these grounds (multiple discrimination).
3. Compensation of victims;
4. The rights of the child, including the protection of children;
5. sylum, immigration and integration of migrants;
6. Visa and border control;
7. Participation of the citizens of the Union in the Union’s democratic functioning;
8. Information society and, in particular, respect for private life and protection of personal data;
9. Access to efficient and independent justice.

More information

On the 7th April 2007 94 Meuros were proposed by the EC for the development of new finantial perspectives 2007-2013 destined for the improvment of fundalmental rights and citizenship. Also a Call for Proposal for the support to the activities of NGOs or other organisations through operating grants) within the Justice Programme. The deadline for submission of applications is 4 April 2008.