Individual communications

CERD Working Methods on Individual Communications

An individual or a group of persons who claim to be victims of racial discrimination may lodge a complaint with CERD against their State.

The Committee brings such communications confidentially to the attention of the State party in question, but does not-without their consent-reveal the identity of the individual or group claiming a violation. When the State has given an explanation of its views and perhaps suggested a remedy, the Committee debates the matter and may make suggestions and recommendations, which are transmitted both to the individual or group concerned and to the State party.

For the Committee to be able to receive individual complaints, the State party must have made a declaration under article 14. You can check this here.

Complaints under this Convention may be brought not only by or on behalf of individuals but also by or on behalf of groups of individuals. The complaints must be submitted within six months of the final decision by a national authority in the case.

Please see: more information on individual communications procedures of treaty bodies:

Pending complaints

The Committee publishes a list of all complaints that have been registered on an annual basis. This list is not exhaustive.

• Table of pending complaints

See also: Selected Decisions of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination