The European Court of Auditors (ECA), the external auditor of the European Union, is an
equal opportunities employer. The principle of equal opportunities is enshrined in the legislation underpinning the work of the EU, notably in Article 1d of the Staff Regulations, which prohibits discrimination 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). The principle also holds full equality between men and women in the workplace to be essential.
The ECA’s commitment to equal opportunities is also apparent in our Ethical Guidelines (Decision No 66-2011), which state: “We shall avoid any form of discrimination and contribute to implementing a policy of equal opportunities for all staff. Members and managers shall take steps to ensure that all staff are given equal treatment and equal opportunities in their professional development.”
In addition to guaranteeing equal opportunities for its staff, the ECA is committed to putting in place a
diversity and inclusion policy. The intention is to create a diverse working environment and an inclusive culture in which everyone feels valued and able to achieve their full potential.
“This diversity and inclusion policy is an important part of the ECA’s strategic goals for 2021 2025. It builds on the results of past action plans to pave the way towards a more diverse, more flexible and, at the same time, more equitable workplace where everyone’s talent has the best opportunity to flourish. Leaders have a key role in making this happen; through our commitment, we can set an example for the rest of the organisation. Therefore, it is our task to make the benefits of a diverse and inclusive culture apparent to all.”
Zacharias Kolias, Secretary-General, European Court of Auditors
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