Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2002, published 91st ILC session (2003)

1. Further to its observation, the Committee notes the entry into force of Act No. 312/2001 on the civil service and Act No. 313/2001 on the Public Service. The Committee requests the Government to indicate in which way the two Acts ensure that the principle of equality of opportunity and treatment are respected and promoted in the sectors of employment which they cover.

2. The Committee notes the explanations given by the Government concerning the terms "national minorities" and "ethnic groups" for whom certain rights are provided under articles 33 and 34 of the Constitution. According to the Government the term "national minority" used in article 33 is a group of inhabitants, part of another nation, which is a minority in the State in respect of the state-forming nation (e.g. the Hungarian minority). The term "ethnic minority" applies to groups of persons which have a "common origin, individual cultural features (particularly language), mentality, tradition and, possibly, separate manners of life". As an example for an ethnic group, the Government refers to the Roma. The Government is requested to confirm that no distinction is made, in law and practice, in respect of the enjoyment of minority rights between "national minorities" and "ethnic groups".