The Commission's Mandate

The Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC) administers the Canadian Human Rights Act (CHRA) and is responsible for the enforcement of employers’ obligations under the Employment Equity Act (EEA).

The purpose of the Canadian Human Rights Act is

to extend the laws in Canada to give effect, within the purview of matters coming within the legislative authority of Parliament, to the principle that all individuals should have an opportunity equal with other individuals to make for themselves the lives that they are able and wish to have and to have their needs accommodated, consistent with their duties and obligations as members of society, without being hindered in or prevented from doing so by discriminatory practices based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, disability or conviction for an offence for which a pardon has been granted.

The purpose of the Employment Equity Act is

to achieve equality in the workplace so that no person shall be denied employment opportunities or benefits for reasons unrelated to ability and, in the fulfillment of that goal, to correct the conditions of disadvantage in employment experienced by women, aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities and members of visible minorities by giving effect to the principle that employment equity means more than treating persons in the same way but also requires special measures and the accommodation of differences.

Both laws seek to ensure that the principles of equal opportunity and non-discrimination are followed in all areas of federal jurisdiction. The Commission aims to advance equality, respect for human rights, and protection from discrimination by fostering understanding of, and compliance with, these two Acts.

Three main programs support the Commission’s mandate.

• Human Rights Knowledge Development and Dissemination Program develops research, policies and legal analysis to foster understanding of, and compliance with, the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Employment Equity Act. The Program also provides leadership, support and tools both nationally and internationally.

• Discrimination Prevention Program works with employers and other stakeholders on prevention and Employment Equity Activities to prevent discriminatory behaviour and ensure that there is reasonable progress in representation of the four designated groups.

• Human Rights Dispute Resolution Program works to resolve human rights disputes involving federally regulated employers, service providers and individuals and represents the Commission in public interest cases. The Program focuses on early intervention to settle disputes.