Galway City has published its Intercultural and Anti-Racism Strategy 2026 - 2029, a comprehensive framework designed to promote equity, participation, equal opportunities and equal treatment across all areas of city life. The Strategy was officially launched on 16 September, with ECCAR Deputy Director Jana Christ contributing to the discussion on how Galway can turn its commitments into meaningful change for the next three years.
Developed by Galway City Partnership, the Strategy responds to the city's growing diversity and sets out a long-term vision for creating a city in which everyone can participate fully, regardless of their background. According to the 2022 Census, the population of third-country nationals is almost one in four, with more than 76 languages spoken across the city. Galway continues to welcome people seeking international protection and those displaced by the war in Ukraine.
About the Intercultural and Anti-Racism Strategy 2026 - 2029
Recognising that diversity alone does not guarantee inclusion, the Strategy takes a human rights-based approach, viewing anti-racism as a shared responsibility across local government, public institutions, civil society, and communities. The Strategy is intended to be a living document, with a review planned for 2027 in order to respond to evolving needs and priorities.
The publication begins by outlining Galway's demographic context, explaining why intercultural and anti-racism policies are essential for creating cohesive, equitable and welcoming communities. It also introduces the principles of interculturalism, drawing on the Council of Europe's Recommendation CM/Rec(2015)1, and emphasises the importance of participation, dialogue and equal access to opportunities.
The Strategy distinguishes between equality and equity, recognising that while equality provides everyone with the same opportunities, equity acknowledges that different groups face different structural barriers and may require tailored support to achieve equal outcomes.
ECCAR is pleased that the ECCAR Scientific Advisory Council contributed to the development of the Strategy through expert review and feedback. As acknowledged in the publication, this contribution helped strengthen the document's coherence, reinforce its alignment with international human rights and anti-racism standards, and reflect good practices from across the European network.
The Strategy is a prime example of how cities can translate human rights principles into practical local policies in response to changing demographics, while also addressing structural racism and discrimination.
ECCAR warmly congratulates Galway City Partnership and all the partners involved in developing this important document, and looks forward to following its implementation in the years ahead.