Upholding human rights across the Commonwealth
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May 2020
coronavirus response graphic ( [link removed] )
For the last two years the Equality and Human Rights Commission
has chaired the Commonwealth Forum of National Human Rights
Institutions ( [link removed] )(CFNHRI). The CFNHRI is a
member-led network of human rights institutions, ombudsmen and
public defenders who protect, promote and advance human rights in
their respective countries, from within the Americas and Europe,
to Africa, Asia, and the Pacific.
In the Commonwealth, nearly two-thirds of countries still
criminalise same-sex activity between adults and many people
continue to face discrimination, violence and abuse because of
their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. A key focus of
the CFNHRI's work during our chairship has been upholding sexual
orientation and gender identity (SOGI) rights. To commemorate
International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia
(17th May), we're shining a light on the work of NHRIs across the
Commonwealth to protect the human rights of lesbian, gay,
bisexual, trans and intersex (LGBTI) people.
We're also updating you on key actions related to our ongoing
response to the coronavirus pandemic, including our publication
of vital new guidance for employers and our submission of
evidence to the Women and Equalities Committee on the impact of
the pandemic on people with protected characteristics. You can
find an overview on our coronavirus work here ( [link removed] ).
And we're sharing our 2019-2020 Impact Report ( [link removed] ), with a summary of how we used our unique powers to uphold
equality and human rights over the last year.
Beyond tolerance ( [link removed] )
Beyond Tolerance
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Every person has the right to be treated equally and to live a
life free from discrimination and persecution. 'Beyond Tolerance'
is a short animation which highlights the role that National
Human Rights Institutions have in protecting and promoting the
rights of LGBTI people. It underscores acceptance and inclusion
as vital foundations of strong rights-respecting societies where
everyone can thrive, and no one is left behind.
'Beyond Tolerance' is narrated by Victor Madrigal-Borloz, the
United Nations Independent Expert on Protection against violence
and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender
identity.
Watch 'Beyond Tolerance' ( [link removed] )
David Isaac ( [link removed] )
Breaking the silence on LGBTI rights
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As current Chair of the CFNHRI, David Isaac highlights the
challenges faced by LGBTI people during the coronvirus pandemic,
the resilience of LGBTI communities and the important role played
by National Human Rights Institutions and international networks
in upholding human rights during a time of global crisis.
Read David's blog ( [link removed] )
Upholding sexual orientation and gender identity rights
around the world
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The theme for International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia
and Transphobia 2020 (which fell on 17th May) was ‘Breaking the
Silence’ and across the Commonwealth NHRIs raised their voices to
promote the human rights of LGBTI people. Representatives from
National Human Rights Institutions in Europe, the Pacifc and
Africa have shared their experiences of working to uphold sexual
orientation and gender identity rights:
“The ultimate goal is for all people to be treated equally and
for everyone to recognise that LGBTI people have the same human
rights as everyone else.”
Kyriacos Kyriacou, Office of the Commissioner for Administration
and the Protection of Human Rights, Cyprus
Read about SOGI rights work in Cyprus ( [link removed] )
“Cultural mindsets are the biggest barriers to progress. We need
to remind people that human rights are universal and apply to
everyone regardless. Everyone should be treated with respect and
equality.”
Charles Dean, National Human Rights Commission of Samoa
Read about SOGI rights work in Samoa ( [link removed] )
Over the last year, the Eswatini Commission on Human Rights and
Public Administration Integrity has held engagement sessions with
members of the LGBTI community, to make them aware of their
rights, and hear about their everyday experiences of
discrimination.
Read about SOGI rights work in Eswatini ( [link removed] )
working mum ( [link removed] )
Important guidance for employers during the coronavirus crisis
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Employers are facing unprecedented circumstances in responding to
coronavirus (COVID-19). We know that many employers are proactive
and innovative, putting inclusivity and the needs of their
employees at the heart of their response.
We also appreciate that difficult decisions need to be made,
including changing the ways employees work, choosing how to pay
those self-isolating and making decisions around furloughing and
redundancy. That's why we've produced new guidance for employers
to aid their decision-making and help them ensure they don't
discriminate.
Read our guidance ( [link removed] )
Guide dog at work ( [link removed] )
Making reasonable adjustments during COVID-19
---------------------------------------------
Whilst working situations may have changed, employers' duties to
make reasonable adjustments for disabled employees or those who
have long-term health conditions have not.
Our guidance gives employers simple instructions on the
adjustments they must make and what to do if adjustments are not
possible.
Read our guidance ( [link removed] )
Pregnant worker ( [link removed] )
Duties on pregnancy and maternity during COVID-19
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Unless a pregnant employee needs adjustments to working
conditions for health and safety or pregnancy related reasons,
you should treat them the same as any other employees.
Our guidance offers simple do's and don'ts for employers to help
them ensure they don't discriminate against those who are
pregnant or on maternity leave.
Read our guidance ( [link removed] )
Women and Equalities Committee
The Women and Equalities Select Committee is carrying out an
investigation into the impact of coronavirus on people with
protected characteristics. As the duty bearer for upholding the
Equality Act, we submitted comprehensive written evidence ( [link removed] )and last week our Chair David Isaac and Executive Director of
Corporate Strategy and Policy, Melanie Field, gave
spoken evidence to the Committee. Watch Melanie and David's
evidence session here ( [link removed] ).
Read our submission to the Women and Equalities Committee ( [link removed] )
Our impact in 2019-2020
Impact report ( [link removed] )
Our impact report tells the story of how we have used our unique
powers over the last year to stand up for freedom, compassion and
justice in changing times.
As well as summarising our enforcement, investigation and
compliance activities, the report focuses on the human impact of
our work, telling the stories of some of those whose lives have
been changed for the better.
Our impact graphic
"Many parents who have SEND children do not have the energy, let
alone the funds, to fight in the courts. We are all just trying
to stay afloat and keep our
families together, which is not always easy.
"We would like to thank the Equality and Human Rights Commission
for funding this case to protect vulnerable children. Without
their support, our society will not progress to become tolerant
and understanding of the diverse needs of SEND children."
Father of Bobby, child with special educational needs who was
unlawfully excluded from his school
Read Bobby's story and others in our Impact Report ( [link removed] )
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Equality and Human Rights Commission
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