EHRC opinion on the new directive and Strategic Plan

27 July 2009

The Equality and Human Rights Commission has responded to the British Government on the proposal of a new anti-discrimination directive put forward by the European Commission in July 2008 and approved by the European Parliament in April 2009.

The directive would cover all grounds of discrimination beyound the workplace and would include protection in social security and health care, education and access to/supply of goods and services which are commercially available to the public, including housing.
The EHRC, in its response, supports the new piece of legislation and "urges the British Government to adopt a positive negotiating position which seeks to strengthen the directive and not weaken any of its current provisions".
Click here for further information.

In addition the Equality and Human Rights Commission has recently published its Strategic Plan which outlines EHRC’s three-year strategy. The plan sets five priorities for the EHRC in the forthcoming years: 

  1. Secure and implement an effective legislative and regulatory framework for equality and human rights
  2. Create a fairer Britain, with equal life chances and access to services for all
  3. Build a society without prejudice, promote good relations and foster a vibrant equality and human rights culture
  4. Promote understanding and awareness of rights and duties - deliver timely and accurate advice and guidance to individuals and employers
  5. Build an authoritative and responsive organisation.

 

Click here for further information on the EHRC's Strategic Plan.