The Equality Commission for Northern Ireland is an independent public body established by the Northern Ireland Act 1998. Relevant legislation provides that it must promote equality of opportunity and affirmative action, work towards the elimination of unlawful discrimination, keep relevant legislation under review, promote good relations between persons of different racial groups and oversee the effectiveness of statutory equality duties on public authorities.

Our aim is to advance fairness and equality, promote equality of opportunity, encourage good relations and challenge discrimination through the responsible and effective use of all of our powers.