Race Discrimination Ordinance 

What is racial discrimination?

Racial discrimination is about treating people less favorably on the basis of their race. Racial discrimination may arise from any attitude, conscious or unconscious, which subordinates an individual based on race. There are two forms of racial discrimination: Direct and Indirect racial discrimination.

Race Discrimination Ordinance:

The ordinance against racial discrimination, the Race Discrimination Ordinance (RDO), was fully effective in Hong Kong on 10 July 2009. It was a big effort against discrimination in Hong Kong.

Code of Practice on Employment

In the Code of Practice on Employment under the RDO, published by the EOC, there are certain recommendations and illustrations for employee and employer that how they have to apply the principles and concepts in RDO in the field of employment.

An employee or worker who claims racial discrimination, harassment and victimization may lodge a complaint with the Equal Opportunity Commission (EOC) which has the power to conduct an investigation with a view to facilitate settlement of any dispute by conciliation.  Alternatively, he may commence action in the District Court. The Court has the power to declare any contract made in contravention of the RDO invalid, order that a person be employed, re-employed or promoted, and award damages, including punitive and exemplary compensation. If you are interest to get more information about racial discrimination, please visit the website of EOC on internet http://www.eoc.org.hk.