European network UNITED for Intercultural Action have launched their annual weeklong campaign to protest against all forms of discrimination and celebrate the diversity that enriches European societies.

In 2016, marking 13 years of action against discrimination, the campaign will focus on highlighting the benefits of diverse societies against a backdrop of rising discriminatory displays in Europe.

On their website UNITED wrote: "Diversity has given so much to European societies. In every part of our continent, people of different ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds work together to build communities, deliver services and improve each other’s lives.

"It seems clear that diversity is the future. But events in the last year have left many Europeans gripped by fear; with racism and xenophobia on the rise, it is now more important than ever to take action to stand up for diversity and the defend the common European values of respect for human rights and human dignity."

Between 12-21 March, NGOs, civil society groups, grassroots associations, schools, universities and city governments across Europe will organise activities under the umbrella of a common campaign.

Football initiatives will also mark the initiative aligned with the United Nations International Day Against Racial Discrimination (21 March).

On 19 March Fare member SARI will host an exhibition football game with boys and girls from Mosney and players from SARI 'Soccernites' and 'Hijabs + Hat Tricks'. In Ukraine 'Ivano-Frankivsk Against Racism 2016' will see a anti-racism football tournament be held alongside trainings for journalism students and roundtables. Latvia Fare member Sport for All will also join the campaign and organise a radio show and a football match to raise awareness of anti-racism work in Jurmala.

UNITED coordinates, supports and strengthens a network of 560 organisations from 46 European countries sharing values such as intercultural communication, diversity and Human Rights.