DEFINITION

To discriminate against someone is to exclude that person from the full enjoyment of their political, civic, economic, social or cultural rights and freedoms. Discrimination contradicts a basic principle of human rights: that all people are equal in dignity and entitled to the same fundamental rights. This principle is repeated in every fundamental human rights document. Most national Constitutions also include provisions against discrimination.

Discrimination is often based on ignorance, prejudices and negative stereotypes. Because many people fear what seems strange or unknown, they react with suspicion or even violence to anyone whose appearance, culture or behaviour is unfamiliar.