Affirmative action in view of raising the number of persons belonging to ethnic minorities in the Belgian private sector, especially in highlevel positions. (R-9970)

Although persons belonging to ethnic minorities may have the same or even better qualifications than others, studies have revealed they are under-represented in the Belgian private sector, especially in high-level positions. To improve their representation, legislators could consider affirmative action. While the European and Belgian legislators have already resorted to affirmative action in order to address the under-representation of women on boards of directors, they have not yet introduced such measures in favour of ethnic minorities. In order to gain insight in the possibility and effectiveness to adopt these affirmative action measures, research is needed. This research project starts with a study of the legal framework of affirmative action in Belgium. It then examines affirmative action in favour of ethnic minorities in Norway and South Africa, since the design and outcome of such measures in these countries can be a source of inspiration for Belgium. In order to fully meet the research goal, an examination from a more practical perspective is added. Belgian private companies' views with regard to affirmative action are examined by conducting in-depth semi-structured interviews. The research ultimately results in concrete proposals for the Belgian legislator regarding the possibility and effectiveness to adopt affirmative action measures.

Keywords:Migration Law, Social Law

Disciplines:Labour law, Social law