Survey - Defining one’s origin in equality data

21 November 2023
Area of action: All areas of action
Grounds of discrimination: Racism

Take the survey! In order to combat racial discrimination and inequality it is important to have data on the origins of people who suffer discrimination (equality data), so that discrimination and inequality can be identified, measures can be taken and the impact of these measures, assessed. A study funded by SPF Justice's Equal Opportunities Team.

You too can help improve the collection of equality data in Belgium. 

Take the survey!

Who can participate ? 

This survey is aimed at people aged 18 and over, living in Belgium. 

We are particularly interested in the opinions of people from different backgrounds: Are you of foreign origin and living in Belgium? Did you come to study in Belgium? Did your grandparents move to this country several decades ago? 

How to participate ? 

  • Take the survey: give your opinion on the method of self-identification of origin in Equality Data and help us understand how to better measure inequality and discrimination on the basis of origin, before 20 December 2023. 
  • If you know other people who could take part in the survey, share this survey with your friends and family or your professional network. 
  • This survey is completely anonymous. You will find more information in the introduction to the survey. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us by e-mail on equalitydata@unia.be or by telephone on 02 212 30 41.

Practical information   

  • Complete the survey by selecting "English" in the top right-hand corner.   
  • You can decide to go into more or less detail in your answers, but you will need around 15 minutes of time to complete the survey.   

Deadline for responses: Wednesday 20 December 2023.  

Please note: it is not possible to save your answers temporarily in order to continue filling in the form later. 

Many thanks for your help!

What is self-identification of origin in equality data? 

In Belgium, origin is often measured on the basis of a person's nationality and the nationality of their parents and grandparents. However, this does not always reflect the reasons why a person may be discriminated against, for example on the basis of their appearance or skin colour.  

Self-identification means that information on personal characteristics (such as origin) is filled in by the persons themselves, who can therefore also choose not to do so. We are trying to study the relevance of this method by gathering the opinions of people from different backgrounds. 

Based on this survey, we will also  publish a report on good practices concerning the method of self-identification of origin in the collection of equality data. 

Comparable articles

21 March 2022

Unia calls for urgent action to fight structural discrimination against people of African origin

To mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, Unia is publishing a report about the discrimination against people of African origin in Belgium and is making a series of recommendations. It is in the areas of employment, housing and education that the discriminations and inequalities suffered by this group are most keenly felt. "The contrast between their high level of education and their low level of employment is striking," says Els Keytsman and Patrick Charlier, Directors of Unia.