COVID-19 AND HUMAN RIGHTS
COVID-19 is an unprecedented crisis that continues to affect day-to-day life in many ways. This sometimes includes accessing the public services and places that are open to the public. In uncertain and challenging times like these, human rights are paramount. It is critical that people know their human rights, acknowledge the rights of others, and understand their protections under The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, 2018. The Commission encourages everyone to keep human rights central in decision making throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, some of the Commission’s employees will be working remotely to comply with social distancing recommendations. The Commission encourages people to contact us via phone, email, fax, or mail. The Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission also maintains a Business Help Line for employers to access: 1-800-667-9249
Visit saskatchewan.ca/covid19 to find out more about COVID-19 in Saskatchewan.
DISCRIMINATION AND COVID-19
People who have contracted COVID-19 could be considered to have a disability, as defined by The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code. As such, discrimination against persons who have COVID-19 – for reasons unrelated to public health and safety – may be prohibited under the Code.
Discrimination related to COVID-19 runs contrary to the Code when it involves a prohibited ground, and takes place in what are often called the social areas of life– such as employment, education, and public services.
Employers, as well as housing and service providers, should keep human rights in mind to ensure that any actions they take or restrictions made pertaining to COVID-19 are consistent:
- with the Code,
- with the most recent advice from medical and public health officials, and
- are justified for health and safety concerns.
For more information about COVID-19 and Human Rights go to the links below: