The research I plan to carry out while at IAS-Paris is part of a broader project. Based on a critical analysis of the evolution of European and comparative law on equality, examined in the light of current political and social theory debates on the concept of equality, this research project aims at elaborating a new conception of equality law that would be able to respond fairly and consistently to three essential challenges faced by contemporary societies, namely “non-discrimination,” “redistribution” and “recognition.” Whereas the phrase “non-discrimination” designates the elimination of arbitrary treatments and disadvantages suffered by individuals on the ground of their belonging to a particular group, by redistribution I mean the struggle against socio-economic inequalities and by “recognition” the question of respect for cultural identities. The basic hypothesis of this research is that, although there are tensions between these different objectives, all three of them are crucial for the development of a society that is able to guarantee its members equal autonomy and equal participation – two core values of a democracy.