Racial discrimination

Racial discrimination means treating someone unfairly because of their race or ethnicity. Refusing a qualified applicant a job because of their ethnicity, for example, denies that person an opportunity for a reason unrelated to their ability. The ethical objection is not simply that this is unkind: it violates equality and justice.

Refusing a suitable applicant a job because of that background is racial discrimination. Discrimination can affect access to employment, education and housing, and can be carried out by individuals, organisations or governments.