France Launches 2026 Initiatives to Combat Racism and Promote Youth Engagement

The DILCRAH (Interministerial Delegation for the Fight Against Racism, Antisemitism, and Anti-LGBT Hatred) has announced a national call for projects for 2026, aiming to support civil society initiatives combating racism, antisemitism, origin-related discrimination, and anti-LGBT hatred across France. This initiative is spearheaded by Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu and Minister Aurore Bergé and aligns with two national plans covering 2023 to 2026 to promote equality and fight discrimination. Applications for this call are open from December 5, 2025, through January 30, 2026, encouraging projects focused on education, prevention, training, communication, and organizing community events against hate and discrimination.

In parallel, the Prix Ilan Halimi 2026 will reward innovative projects led by youth groups under 25 years old that aim to raise awareness against racist and antisemitic prejudices. Named after Ilan Halimi, a victim of an antisemitic crime in 2006, this award highlights the critical role young people play in mobilizing against hate speech and fostering fraternity, respect for diversity, and solidarity.

Together, these programs demonstrate France’s commitment to combating hate and discrimination through education, prevention, and youth engagement, continuing efforts initiated several years ago through coordinated national plans.