Across the European Union, towns, cities, and regions are increasingly committing to building inclusive, diverse, and discrimination-free communities. To recognise these efforts the European Commission has launched its 2026 European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Awards.

What the Award Recognises

The ECID Award celebrates cities, towns, and regions 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. It encourages these local authorities to serve as examples for others, inspiring similar initiatives across Europe.

By focusing on local authorities, the initiative emphasises that while national policies set the basis, the real impact of inclusion often happens at the city, town, or regional level.

Categories and Timeline

For the 2026 edition, the Award will recognise local authorities in two size categories:

• Those with fewer than 50,000 inhabitants and
• Those with more than 50,000 inhabitants

There will also be a Specific Award in a special theme: building an inclusive labour market for all.

Three winners will be selected per category, with an additional winner for the special theme. The application process is open and will close on 30 January 2026 at 12:00 CET. It will be followed by an evaluation in early 2026, with the award ceremony planned for 21 April 2026, in Brussels.

Benefits of Participating

Participating local authorities gain not only recognition but also access to a network of cities and regions committed to inclusion. They will have the chance to share best practices, learn from one another, and strengthen their communities’ cohesion and resilience. Even authorities that are not selected as winners benefit from increased visibility and the opportunity to showcase their inclusive initiatives.

Would you like to know more about the Award? Are you interested in applying? Join the EU information webinars on 20 November and 9 December 2025.

Learn more about the past winners.