The European Union has launched the 2025 edition of the European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity awards, aimed at recognizing and highlighting best practices in promoting diversity and inclusion in cities and regions across Europe. This initiative forms part of the EU’s broader efforts to combat discrimination and build more equitable societies. The 2025 European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity awards seek to acknowledge and give visibility to the work of local administrations that serve as inspiration for other European cities in creating more diverse and inclusive environments for their citizens. These distinctions are designed to raise standards of inclusion, providing a model for other regions to follow.
Participation criteria and award categories The competition is open to all local administrations within the European Union, including cities, towns, and regions. The awards are divided into two main categories: municipalities with fewer than 50,000 inhabitants and those with more than 50,000 inhabitants. These parameters ensure that the various realities and specific challenges of each municipality size are adequately represented and assessed. Initiatives will be evaluated based on their innovation, impact, and replicability. The focus is on practices that address different forms of discrimination—from gender to ethnic origin and ability—and that demonstrate an intersectional approach in their implementation.
Special award for inclusive housing A special award will be given to initiatives that promote inclusive housing for all individuals, regardless of their ethnicity, origin, or social status. This award aims to highlight and encourage projects that create livable spaces that are accessible and welcoming to the diversity of the population.
Spanish finalists in the competition Several cities and towns in Spain, including Bilbao, Zaragoza, L’Alfàs del Pi, Parada de Sil, San Xoán de Río, and Usurbil, have been selected as finalists. The winners will be announced during the opening of the European Diversity Month 2025 in Brussels, with a ceremony scheduled for April 29, 2025.
Applications and evaluation process The application period is open until February 7, 2025, at 12:00 CET. Applications can be submitted in any official EU language. The evaluation process will take place in February and March 2025, culminating in the award ceremony in April of the same year.
