Recovery and resilience scoreboard. Equality.

Abstract

Equality and the inclusion of disadvantaged groups are high on the EU's policy agenda. This thematic analysis outlines the contribution of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) to addressing inequalities in the EU. The fiche provides an overview of the existing policy context in the EU and gives an overview of the measures that Member States are taking in their national recovery and resilience plans (RRPs)1. Women and men were impacted differently by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the crisis also significantly affected specific groups such as refugees, people with disabilities, LGBTIQ people2, older people and people with a migrant, minority racial or ethnic background, including marginalised Roma communities. In addition, the pandemic and the measures to contain it hit disadvantaged groups harder. The crisis accentuated the challenges that certain groups already faced. It further entrenched existing inequalities and discrimination, and exacerbated social exclusion and marginalisation3. For those depending on help from others to take care of their physical needs, physical distancing created major difficulties. Restrictive measures had an additional impact on mental well-being, in particular of people who already relied to a high degree on their social circles.