News item | 22-04-2022 | 15:15
The cabinet has approved the establishment of the new State Commission against Discrimination and Racism. This setting takes place at the request of the House of Representatives. The State Commission will investigate discrimination and racism in the Netherlands. The research focuses on all sectors of society, including screening for discrimination and ethnic profiling within government. Based on the investigation, the State Commission will advise the government on improving policies and regulations to combat discrimination and racism.
At the institution, Mrs. Dr Joyce Sylvester appointed as chairman. Sylvester was deputy ombudsman at the National Ombudsman from 2016 to 2022 and has a long track record in public administration. She was acting mayor of Naarden, acting mayor of Anna Pavlovna and member of the Senate for twelve years. She has always actively tackled the fight against discrimination and racism on the basis of these various responsibilities.
The other members are appointed by the Minister of the Interior and Kingdom Relations. The minister will base this on the scientific profile of the State Commission. Naturally, attention will also be paid to the diversity and background of the members.
Independent and scientific profile
The State Commission has an interdisciplinary, scientific profile. She will focus on extensive, long-term research into fundamental issues in order to provide new scientific insights. In this respect the State Commission differs from the National Coordinator against Discrimination and Racism and the Human Rights Board. The committee will issue a final recommendation within four years and has the option of issuing interim reports.
Integrated approach
The establishment of the State Commission in 2022 is part of a package of initiatives to tackle discrimination and racism more effectively. This gives long-term scientific research into the underlying mechanisms and causes of discrimination and effective interventions an important, integral place within anti-discrimination policy.
The institution decision and appointment decision will be published in the Government Gazette.