Chamber and committees

The Scottish Government is committed to incorporating equality practices across its activities, both in developing policy and as an employer. The work of the Scottish Government is underpinned by the principle that no one should be denied opportunities because of their race or ethnicity, their disability, their gender or sexual orientation, their age or religion.

In May 2012, equality duties came into effect which mean the Scottish Government must equality impact assess its new or revised policies and practices and must also, within a reasonable period, publish the results of such assessments. An equality impact assessment should be an integral part of the policy making process, to shape and inform policy.

The programme for government illustrates the policies, actions and legislation that the Scottish Government will take forward to deliver its core purpose. It does not play a part in the development or implementation of policy or practices, therefore it will not be subject to an equality impact assessment. Instead, equality impact assessments will be undertaken by the accountable policy areas as part of the policy making process.