The Council of Europe’s anti-racism watchdog has praised Monaco for progress in combating discrimination while urging the Principality to strengthen its legal framework in several key areas…
In a report published this week, the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) highlighted a number of advances since its previous review in 2022. These include improvements in preventing hate speech and hate crime, greater inclusion within the education sector, and broader access to healthcare for foreign nationals, including those in an irregular situation.
The report also welcomed measures allowing medical costs to be reimbursed for partners in same-sex marriages contracted abroad, the inclusion of non-discrimination principles for civil servants in legislation, and support for displaced Ukrainians holding temporary residence permits.
However, ECRI said further action is needed. The commission called on Monaco to strengthen legislation targeting hate speech, hate crime and discrimination, noting gaps in existing criminal law provisions. It also raised concerns about the ability of authorities to remove hateful online content or block websites promoting such material.
Particular attention was given to reports of racist and LGBTI-phobic bullying in schools. ECRI recommended that education on human rights, tolerance and respect for diversity be delivered systematically across the education system, including topics related to sexual orientation, gender identity and sex characteristics.
The commission also called for comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, a clear legal framework governing gender recognition procedures, and stronger protections for foreign nationals employed in undeclared domestic work, whom it described as being in a particularly vulnerable position.
The recommendations come as Monaco holds the Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, with human rights among the stated priorities of its six-month mandate.
Image: Bimbingan Islam