Promoting free and fair elections

Advice and Guidance

Who is this page for?

  • Public sector

Which countries is it relevant to?

    • England flag icon

      England

    • |
    • Scotland flag icon

      Scotland

    • |
    • Wales flag icon

      Wales

The Commission has produced guidance which explains how equality and human rights law applies and operates during an election period which you can find here.

Equality and Human Rights Law during an Election Period is relevant to England, Scotland and Wales. It explains how complaints can be made and what the role of regulators is. 

It will be helpful for local authority senior managers, returning officers and the police. Political parties, including candidates and regional and constituency staff should also find it useful, as well the general public. 

We have also produced a guide which is about freedom of expression in England, Scotland and Wales. Freedom of Expression Legal Framework explains the legal basis for freedom of expression and provides advice about its limitations in different contexts. 

It outlines criminal offences relating to hate speech and sentencing. It covers freedom of expression and the media and it explains the role of regulators. 

It is intended for a broad range of people and organisations who may be interested in how the law regulates potentially offensive forms of expression. 

This includes parliamentarians, non-government organisations, journalists and members of the public.

Last updated: 19 Feb 2019

Further information

If you think you might have been treated unfairly and want further advice, you can contact the Equality Advisory and Support Service.

Phone: 0808 800 0082

You can email using the contact form on the EASS website.

Also available through the website are BSL interpretation, web chat services and a contact us form.

Post:
FREEPOST
EASS HELPLINE
FPN6521

Opening hours:

9am to 7pm Monday to Friday
10am to 2pm Saturday
closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays

Alternatively, you can visit our advice and guidance page.