News

European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Award is now open for applications

The European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Award recognises the work done by cities, towns, or regions in Europe to promote inclusion and create discrimination-free societies.

It is open for local authorities to apply and is a chance to show the world what these ‘capitals of inclusion’ are doing to create more diverse and inclusive spaces for their citizens.

Who can apply?

The competition is open for local authorities such as cities, towns or regions in the EU. The applications must be made by an official representative.

Applicants will be asked to provide a description of key initiatives promoting diversity and inclusion.

Initiatives that comprehensively address different grounds of discrimination (in particular, sex, age, disability, ethnic/racial origin, religion and sexual orientation/gender identity and gender expression) and demonstrate an intersectional approach will be an asset.

For more details see the Rules of the Competition

Award categories

There are two categories for the 2024 edition of the award:

  •  local authorities with less than 50,000 inhabitants 
  •  with more than 50,000 inhabitants.

There is also a special award for local authorities enabling safe towns, cities and regions for women in all their diversity, by addressing violence against women.

How to apply?

  • Applicants must create a profile and apply via the online application form.
  • Please complete all sections of the online application form and submit it by 15 February 2024, 12:00 CET.
  • Applications can be completed in any of the official languages of the EU. They will be translated into English using an automated translator. Where possible, applicants are encouraged to submit their project proposal in English to facilitate the handling of the proposals.
  • Applicants can also upload or provide a link to a 10-slide PowerPoint presentation to illustrate their application.
  • Applicants must attach a Declaration of honour (Annex III) signed by the Mayor or the highest-ranking representative, authorised by national law to legally represent the town/city/region.

See the Guidance Note for details on the application process.

Competition Timeline

Opening of the applications process 

6 December 2023

Closing of the applications process 

15 February 2024 12:00 CET

Evaluation by independent experts 

February/March 2024

Evaluation by European Juries (General competition and Specific award for local authorities enabling safe towns, cities and regions for women in all their diversity, by addressing violence against women)

March/April 2024

Information to applicants 

April 2024

Ceremony for the European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Awards 2024

25 April 2024

For more information on the European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Award, visit the official website at www.eudiversity2024.eu or contact the Bulgarian Diversity Charter at diverse@online.bg.