The European Council

The Council can prepare for a thematic discussion on caste discrimination, for example at a COHOM or COASI session, in order to develop a common position and move towards an action plan with measures to counter caste discrimination.

IDSN recommends that such discussion as well as discussions in affected South Asian countries involve Dalit representatives for analyses on the contemporary situation. Such initiatives could help ensure that Council statements, resolutions and declarations – and EU action in future - adequately reflect concerns and recommendations related to caste discrimination.

As per August 2010, IDSN has briefed EU Council working groups on two occasions. In November 2009, Dalit representatives from India and Nepal joined forces with the IDSN coordinator to conduct an informal briefing on caste discrimination for members of COASI and COHOM. These two EU Council working groups are responsible for relations with Asia and human rights respectively.

In May 2010, COHOM hosted a hearing on caste discrimination. IDSN representatives made a presentation during the meeting and called on the EU to engage more strongly in international efforts to eliminate caste discrimination. Following this meeting, IDSN prepared a draft EU Policy Framework for the elimination of caste discrimination. This document includes a list of recommendations for future EU action, including recognition of caste discrimination as a priority human rights issue.