In contrast to special programmes , which can also be used as a defence, exemptions are granted on the basis of safety, efficiency and economy rather the desire to remedy the disadvantages of a group. In the human rights field, a formal complaint is a written complaint filed with a human rights commission about a violation of a human rights act. The commission must investigate such complaints and, if they appear to have merit, must attempt to conciliate them. If a complaint cannot be settled, a board of inquiry may be appointed to hold a hearing. In the human rights field, harassment means unwelcome or insulting comments or conduct related to a personal characteristic such as race, gender or sexual orientation.
Human rights are rights that all people have.
These rights do not have to be earned and they are inalienable, which means no one can take them away. In Canada, human rights acts are the provincial and federal laws that prohibit certain types of discrimination and harassment , whether by governments, businesses or organizations. Some human rights acts in Canada also guarantee certain liberties and freedoms. Discrimination and harassment is prohibited on the grounds of race, colour, religion, national origin, ancestry, place of origin, age, physical disability , mental disability , marital status, sexual orientation or sex , including pregnancy. Certain exceptions apply.