Being discriminated?

All Member States are required by the European Union to designate "National Equality Bodies" for the promotion of equal treatment. These bodies are expected to provide independent assistance to the victims of discrimination. While the legislation refers specifically to bodies concerned with racial discrimination, many countries have also decided to set up bodies that will cover other grounds of discrimination, such as religion and belief, sex, disability, age and sexual orientation, in addition to provisions covering the equal treatment of men and women.

If you are a victim of discrimination, harassment or victimisation you have the right to take action and should contact your national equality body. Most of these equality bodies are members of EQUINET. You can find more information about your national equality body here.

A list of national equality bodies is also available on the website of DG Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities.