The legislation requires that Member States give victims of discrimination the right to make a complaint through a judicial or administrative procedure and that appropriate penalties are imposed on those who have discriminated.

The rules also provide for sharing the burden of proof in civil and administrative cases. This will make it easier for people who have experienced discrimination to prove it.

The legislation on racial discrimination requires Member States to designate bodies for the promotion of equal treatment which will provide independent assistance to the victims of discrimination, conduct surveys and studies and publish independent reports and recommendations. Victims of discrimination may also be supported by a non-governmental organisation like the European Anti-Discrimination Council or a trade union who have a legitimate interest.