La Halde: how it can help

Anyone can apply to the Halde if they feel they are a victim of discrimination (by race, nationality, sexuality etc) over matters like housing, work and public services.

About 20% of cases result in a ruling and action ranging from recommendations to using mediation, legal action or out of court settlements.

The Halde has supported foreigners denied state healthcare; ruled that, with limited exceptions, it is wrong for jobs to be denied to non-French nationals and that employers should not ask for “mother-tongue” speakers of French (though to ask for a “bilingual” employee is acceptable).

It supported a woman denied a place on a state-sponsored French course for immigrants because she was European - resulting in changes that meant Connexion readers have been able to apply for them.

You can contact the Halde by letter or email - in French or English (though French is preferred). Volunteer “local correspondents” can inform you about rights and help you apply.

To find one see www.halde.fr/Information-par-region.html