Implementation of equal treatment legislation in employment

The implementation of equal treatment legislation on the grounds of age, gender identity, religion or belief, race or ethnic origin, sexual orientation and gender was the main focus of a seminar organised by the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE) for interested stakeholders.

Representatives of trade unions' and employers' associations, vocational educational bodies, NGOs which work with groups covered by the equal treatment legislation and employers discussed together the potential of the equal treatment legislation in protecting people from discrimination in employment and vocational education.

The seminar focused on the expanded scope of the legislation that now covers the grounds of age, gender identity, religion or belief, race or ethnic origin and sexual orientation.

This seminar was facilitated by Niall Crowley, an Irish independent equality expert. Crowley has been involved in a wide range of equality initiatives at a European Union level since 2009. Throughout the seminar, participants were able to explore legal remedies and the effectiveness of equal treatment legislation; how to support those who experience discrimination by reporting their experience and how to encourage good practice in employment settings.

NCPE organised this seminar following the extension of its remit which covers equality based on gender and family responsibilities, sexual orientation, age, religion or belief, racial or ethnic origin, and gender identity in employment, banks, financial institutions as well as education and vocational training; and equality on the basis of race/ethnic origin and gender in the provision of goods and services and their supply.

This initiative was supported by the European Commission Representation in Malta.