MEPs Want National Equality Bodies For The Fight Against Discrimination
MEPs are calling for national equality bodies to fight against discrimination all through the European Union (EU).
These bodies would be public institutions that protect and provide assistance to anyone victimised by discrimination.
They should be fully independent of external influence when it comes to performing their tasks, deciding on their objectives and actions, and in particular as regards their legal structure, accountability, budget, staffing, communication, and organisation, MEPs urged.
They want these bodies to have more powers, resources, and independence, stating that they should have the authority to investigate a complaint and initiate court proceedings to address structural discrimination.
This draft position was adopted by the committees on Women’s Rights and Employment with 48 in favour, eight against, and seven abstentions.
A lack of adequate and stable human, material, technical, and financial resources is, MEPs say, hampering the ability of equality bodies to work effectively. Therefore, member states should ensure that these bodies receive adequate funding, can hire the necessary amount of qualified staff, and have appropriate premises and infrastructure to carry out their tasks effectively.
“The EU is in need of effective anti-discrimination legislation. But good legislation is not enough on its own – we need effective tools too. This is where the Equality Bodies Directive comes in; it defines and harmonises how our national equality bodies can defend and support people who have experienced discrimination.”
“Parliament’s strong position ensures that equality bodies can genuinely assist and defend European citizens against discrimination, on an equal footing in every member state.”
Once the draft position has been endorsed by the full house, negotiations with the Council on the final form of the law can begin.
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