IV. Independent Expert’s main findings

A. Discrimination

18. The Ombud for Equal Treatment is an independent State agency that consists of three individuals, one of whom deals specifically with discrimination on the grounds of age. Its mandate, however, is limited to the area of employment and occupation. Irrespective of a person’s race, ethnic origin, religion, age and sexual orientation, the agency is responsible for counselling and supporting victims of discrimination in relation to employment. It can conduct independent enquiries and surveys, publish independent reports and make recommendations on discrimination-related issues. In practice, it mostly negotiates out-of- court settlements and has almost no role before the courts. It can also, however, initiate proceedings before the Equal Treatment Commission at the request of the person concerned.

V. Conclusions and recommendations

A. Discrimination

100. Noting that the office of the Ombud for Equal Treatment irrespective of race, ethnic origin, religion, age and sexual orientation in relation to employment is understaffed, she urges the Government to provide adequate resources to the equality bodies to ensure that they can make full use of their powers, such as by conducting independent enquiries and surveys and publishing independent reports.

Link to full text of the report: Report-IEOlder-Austria-2015-eng