About the 2026 Award
Calling all inclusive cities, towns and regions around Europe
European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Award recognises, gives visibility to, and highlights the work done by a town, city or region that can be a source of inspiration for other European cities in creating more diverse, discrimination-free and inclusive environments for their citizens. It recognises best practices that promote diversity (in terms of sex, age, disability, LGBTIQ identity, religion or belief and racial or ethnic origin) as a source of richness and innovation, contribute to inclusive policies and systems, and foster a feeling of belonging for all its citizens.
The Award was one of the deliverables of the EU anti-racism action plan 2020-2025 and LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020-2025 and it shows how action at all levels is essential if we want to turn the tide and build a Union of Equality. Our commitment to the Award has now been renewed under the new Gender Equality strategy 2026-2030, Anti-Racism strategy 2026-2030, and LGBTIQ+ equality strategy 2026-2030.
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Award categories
There are two main categories:
- Local Authorities with Less than 50 000 Inhabitants
- Local Authorities with More than 50 000 Inhabitants
In 2026, a Specific Award will be given to local authorities for their work in building an 'inclusive labour market for all'.
There will be three winners per category (first, second, and third place). The size of the local authority is not considered for the Specific Award.
You can submit your application in any EU official language.
Find out more about who and how your town, city or region could apply for the European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Award
Discover everything about past and current winners
Discover everything you need to know about the European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Award
Cast your vote: Discover the finalists of the 2026 Award
The finalists of the European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Award 2026 represent the forefront of local action to build fairer, more inclusive societies across Europe. Selected from a highly competitive pool of applications, these cities, towns and regions have demonstrated outstanding commitment to promoting equality, tackling discrimination, and ensuring that no one is left behind. Through innovative policies, targeted initiatives and strong community engagement, they are translating the values of the Union of Equality into tangible impact on the ground. Discover their stories, explore their initiatives, and take part in the public vote to support your favourite city.
Timeline
(indicative timeline, more details after the launch of the Award)
- Opening of Applications
October - November 2025
- Information webinars
20 November and 9 December 2025
- Closing of Applications
30 January 2026 at 12:00 CET
- Evaluation by Experts
February 2026
- Evaluation by European Juries
March 2026
- Information to Applicants
March / April 2026
- Award Ceremony in Brussels
21 April 2026
Inspire the EU, build a Union of Equality
The Award is about more than recognition. Our winners will inspire other towns, cities and regions by sharing best practices and winning policies. This will take us all a step further to a Union of Equality and a more equal society.
Questions about the Award?
If you have questions:
- Check out the rules and guidelines
- Contact us at eudiversity_award
vo-europe [dot] eu (JUST-CITY-AWARDS[at]ec[dot]europa[dot]eu)
Spread the word
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Thank you
The concept of the Award has been prepared in consultation with colleagues from across the European Commission including those in the Directorates-General for Justice and Consumers, Regional and Urban Policy, Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, Environment and the Secretariat-General. We have also worked with the Committee of the Regions.
Newsletter
Subscribe to #DiversityCapitals, the newsletter of the European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Award
#DiversityCapitals is the official newsletter of the European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Award. Sign up below to receive the latest news and announcements in the lead up to the Award ceremony . Along with a snapshot of recent highlights, you will receive ready-to-use assets (social media posts, visuals etc.) and key dates for your diaries. Some of the resources will be downloadable from this website.