Written - Tenth Equality Annual Report 2008-2009

This is our tenth equality annual report and I am pleased with the continued progress we have made. We want to ensure that the principles of human rights – fairness, respect, equality and dignity – are fundamental to our work. We have to mainstream the human rights approach in our core processes.

The Welsh Assembly Government is committed to a citizen centred human rights based approach. Human rights is primarily about people being able to live their lives to the full, to have equal opportunities and to be treated with dignity and respect. The Welsh Assembly Government recognises its role and the areas where there is a need for further improvement. We will carry on promoting the equality agenda through our working groups, policies, practices and through working with stakeholders.

We have not just seen the Welsh Assembly Government make strides toward equality of opportunity for all, our public authorities have been undertaking work to promote and embed equality. This is encouraging and shows that the message is getting out there.

I was pleased to note that we are beginning to see the public attitude in Wales towards supporting human rights is improving. This was evident in the EHRC Wales - ‘Who do you see?’ report published in October 2008. The report showed that over nine out of ten people endorsed human rights. We can now build on these firm foundations.

We have achieved a great deal but we cannot be complacent and continue to strive towards equality for everyone.

Copies of the Report have been sent to all Assembly Members.