Observation (CEACR) - adoptée 2001, publiée 90ème session CIT (2002)

The Committee notes the amendments made in April 2000 to the Equal Rights for Women Act of 1951. It notes with interest new section 1B, paragraph 2 on affirmative action, which provides that any provision or act which is designed to rectify a former or existing discrimination against women, or a provision or act which is designated for the advancement of the equality of women shall not be regarded as an infringement of equality or unlawful discrimination. It further notes that in any public body, there shall be proper representation of women in the various types of posts and grading (section 6C(a)). In cases of similar qualification of candidates of both sexes, affirmative action shall be taken in favour of the female candidate wherever this is necessary to implement this provision. The Committee would be grateful to receive information on the practical application of the Equal Rights Act, as amended, including any programmes or activities undertaken by the Government, court decisions and statistical information on the impact on men and women’s, including non-Jewish women’s, employment of the affirmative action measures taken.