1 THE EUROPEAN DILEMMA : INSTITUTIONAL PATTERNS AND THE POLITICS OF “ RACIAL ” DISCRIMINATION

INTRODUCTION In this report we map the discriminatory landscapes of Cyprus. Our focus is on ethnic discrimination in the labour market and in schooling and education. In spite of the various policy declarations, legal provisions and legislation affirming equal treatment for all irrespective of ethnic, ‘racial’ or other background, there is significant evidence that suggests that in both these fields, as well as in other areas, there are significant variations in the treatment of groups of migrants and of persons from specific ethnic backgrounds. It must be stated that few studies of discrimination as such exist for Cyprus; however, from the little evidence that does exist (official reports and independent research) discriminatory practices are abundant. What emerges is a strong case for investigating further the underlying discourses and structural forces at play, that give rise to discrimination.