Chapter III -
Equality
Article 20 Equality before the
law
Everyone is equal before the
law.
Article
21 Non-discrimination
1. Any discrimination based on any
ground such as sex, race, colour, ethnic or social origin,
genetic features, language, religion or belief, political or
any other opinion, membership of a national minority,
property, birth, disability, age or sexual orientation shall
be prohibited. 2. Within the scope of application of the
Treaty establishing the European Community and of the Treaty
on European Union, and without prejudice to the special
provisions of those Treaties, any discrimination on grounds
of nationality shall be prohibited.
Article 22 Cultural, religious and
linguistic diversity
The Union shall respect cultural,
religious and linguistic diversity.
Article 23 Equality between men and
women
Equality between men and women must be
ensured in all areas, including employment, work and
pay. The principle of equality shall not prevent the
maintenance or adoption of measures providing for specific
advantages in favour of the under-represented
sex.
Article 24 The rights of the
child
1. Children shall have the right to
such protection and care as is necessary for their
well-being. They may express their views freely. Such views
shall be taken into consideration on matters which concern
them in accordance with their age and maturity. 2. In all
actions relating to children, whether taken by public
authorities or private institutions, the child's best
interests must be a primary consideration. 3. Every child
shall have the right to maintain on a regular basis a
personal relationship and direct contact with both his or
her parents, unless that is contrary to his or her
interests.
Article 25 The rights of the
elderly
The Union recognises and respects the
rights of the elderly to lead a life of dignity
and independence and to participate in social and
cultural life.
Article 26 Integration of persons
with disabilities
The Union recognises and respects the
right of persons with disabilities to benefit from measures
designed to ensure their independence, social and
occupational integration and participation in the life of
the
community. |