Equality and non-discrimination: some issues of implementation

Abstract

The path of Ukraine as a legal democratic state to the European space determines such primary activity directions and fundamental values as human rights and freedoms. That is why their consolidation is carried out at the legislative level, including the provisions of international treaties in this area. Nowadays in Ukraine, human rights are legally defined, including, in particular, the right for an equality and protection from discrimination. Therefore, issues of equal treatment guarantee (constitutional equality principle), irrespective of nationality, race, gender identity, ethnic origin, religion, physical disabilities, age, etc., are remain up-to-date. However, non-discrimination principle is still not enshrined in the Constitution of Ukraine, as well as efficient mechanism that would enable implementation of this principle. So, currently, principles of an equality and non-discrimination are remain quite disputable among scientific community. Firstly, it concerns terminological apparatus. In theory alongside with the term «equality» use the term «equity», they are either interchange or being used as part and whole – «equity» includes both equality and non-discrimination principles. Secondly, the current legislation is inconsistent in terms of the regulation of general provisions on equality and non-discrimination. However, on Ukraine`s way to European integration, it is important to take into account the provisions of world standards on the protection of human and civil rights and freedoms, in particular the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, 1950 Protocol No. 12 to the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms of 1950, which is prerequisite for the harmonious development of Ukraine as a European state. Key words: law, rights and freedoms, constitutional principle, equality, equality, equality, non-discrimination, person, citizen.