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Equinet - European network of equality bodies

Equality bodies are required to provide independent assistance to victims of discrimination. This assistance can involve a range of activities including :

  • providing information about the existence of anti-discrimination laws and about the possibility to take legal action to seek remedy or compensation for an act of discrimination;
  • providing information about the existence of anti-discrimination laws and about the possibility to take legal action to seek remedy or compensation for an act of discrimination;
  • helping people who experience discrimination to come to an amicable settlement/mutual agreement (mediation) with the alleged perpetrators;
  • giving legal advice and representing in front of the courts people who have been discriminated;
  • acting as amicus curiae or third-party intervener
  • Investigating and hearing discrimination complaints as a quasi-judicial body and deciding on the merits of the case, either with a legally binding or a legally non-binding decision.

Beyond their activities related to individual complaints and litigation, equality bodies can:

  • Conduct independent surveys on discrimination;
  • Publish independent reports and make recommendations on any issue relating to discrimination;
  • Run information campaigns aimed at the general public; and
  • Provide support to employers and service providers on good equality practice.