Hybrid public hearing on “Strengthening the role and independence of equality bodies"

Hybrid event via Interactio online platform on Monday, 16 January 2023 from 10:00 to 13:00 p.m.


09:30 - 10:00 | Testing connection

10:00 - 10:05 | Introduction

10:05 - 10:15 | Presentation of the draft opinion

  • Sif HOLST, Co-Rapporteur of the EESC Opinion on Equality bodies
  • Nicoletta MERLO, Co-Rapporteur of the EESC Opinion on Equality bodies

10:15 - 11:30 | Panel I - Setting minimum standards for Equality bodies

Moderator: Marie-Pierre LE BRETON, President of the study group

  • Claire HASENFRATZ, Legal Officer, Unit D.1, DG JUST, European Commission
  • Karolina SCHLYTER, Counsellor for Social Affairs, Permanent Representation of Sweden to the EU
  • Tena ŠIMONOVIĆ EINWALTER, Ombudswoman of Croatia and Chair of the Executive Board, European Network of Equality bodies (EQUINET) - online
  • Tamás KÁDÁR, Co-Director, European Network of Equality bodies (EQUINET) - online

Q&A

11:30 - 11:40 | Break

11:40 - 12:50 | Panel II - The role of Equality bodies in combatting discrimination

Moderator: Marie-Pierre LE BRETON, President of the study group

  • Isaline OSSIEUR, Social Affairs Adviser, Business Europe - online
  • Aline BRÜSER, Advisor, European Trade Union Confederation - online
  • Marine ULDRY, Human rights policy Coordinator, European Disability Forum
  • Mary COLLINS, Senior Policy and Advocacy Coordinator, European Women's Lobby
  • Niall CROWLEY, Senior Expert, European Network of Legal Experts in Gender Equality and Non-Discrimination - online

Q&A

12:50 - 12:55 | Conclusions

  • Sif HOLST, Co-Rapporteur of the EESC Opinion on Equality bodies
  • Nicoletta MERLO, Co-Rapporteur of the EESC Opinion on Equality bodies

12:55 - 13:00 | Conclusions

  • Marie-Pierre LE BRETON, President of the study group

Interpretation: participants can speak AND listen into: English, French, Italian, Lithuanian, Croatian