Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2000, published 89th ILC session (2001)

Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111) - Belgium (Ratification: 1977)

The Committee notes the adoption of the Act of 7 May 1999 on equality of treatment for men and women. It notes with interest the adoption of this new Act which adds several innovations to existing legislation. It notes that the Act incorporates two European directives, on equality of treatment in occupational social security regimes (96/97/CE), and on the burden of proof in cases of discrimination based on sex (97/80/CE). It notes that the new Act introduces the concept of sexual harassment, that it contains clear definitions of the concepts of "equality of treatment", "direct discrimination" and "indirect discrimination", and addresses classification of occupations, in order to eliminate salary differences between men and women. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would supply, with future reports, information on the implementation of this new Act and its impact on the achievement of equality between men and women in employment.

In addition, a request regarding other points is being addressed directly to the Government.