The Principle of Equality

The right to equal treatment is undoubtedly one of the most fundamental human rights. As such, it can be found in international human rights treaties, in constitutions and in national legislation. In this book the principle of equality is analysed from different angles, bearing in mind the South African and Belgian experiences in this area. Firstly, a general overview is given of the different sources of human rights law in the Belgian and South African legal system, the relation between international and national law, the direct applicability and third party-applicability of rights and freedoms in the legal order(s), and the implementation mechanisms available both in Belgium and South Africa. Secondly, the principle of equality, as found in the Belgian Constitution, in the European Convention on Human Rights and in the South African Constitution, and the South African Antidiscrimination Bill are analyzed. Finally, the principle of equality is being studied from a thematic perspective, i.e. with regard to the use of languages and from a gender perspective. The book is concluded with a contribution on the access to medical and health care in South Africa.