The UK's greatest area of strength is anti-discrimination law (see box). The UK scores third out of the EU-15, after PT and SE. Along with three other MIPEX countries, the UK attains best practice on both definitions and concepts and fields of application. For example, the law covers three of the grounds that affect migrants - race/ethnicity, religion/belief and, with limited exceptions, nationality. Complainants receive financial assistance, shifts in the burden of proof and protection against victimisation in many fields. They must, however, go through lengthy civil and administrative procedures, where NGOs (specifically, legal entities with a legitimate interest in defending equality) have little role. Furthermore, specialised equality agencies cannot engage in proceedings on behalf of a victim. The state's equality policies include positive action measures on the three grounds, disseminating information and leading dialogue.
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Improvements in antidiscrimination law. Now 5thbest in 28
Since 2004, the UK's score improved overall and on 3 antidiscrimination indicators. The Commission for Equality and Human Rights (CEHR), established by the Equality Act 2006 and operational in October 2007, will bring together the Commission for Racial Equality, Disability Rights Commission and Equal Opportunities Commission. To more effectively combat discrimination in general and on all grounds, the CEHR will be able to instigate proceedings in its own name and assist victims through independent legal advice and investigations. It aims to tackle a main barrier to promoting equality in the UK: the lack of skilled, expert advice and assistance. Also, recent case law provided better guidance on how shifts in the burden of proof should be applied (see Igen Ltd and Others -v-Wong 2005, Diem v. Crystal Service plc 2005, and Aziz v CPS 2006).
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