Carolyn Desvaux de Marigny has been president of the EOC since October 30, 2025, when she took her oath at the State House in Réduit. She succeeded Mᵉ Ahmad Sulliman Jeewah and has been working to revitalize the institution. Her first year in office has seen a marked increase in activity, with 202 complaints handled, 132 hearings, and 100 cases closed.
The EOC has also focused on raising awareness and promoting equality, particularly among young people. In a recent initiative, 271 students from 21 schools were brought together for a day of discussion and education on the importance of equality and combating discrimination. The commission has also strengthened its partnerships with various stakeholders, including labor inspectors, human resources managers, NGOs, and the island of Rodrigues.
Desvaux de Marigny emphasizes that the EOC's role goes beyond simply addressing complaints; it aims to promote a culture of equality and prevent discrimination. To achieve this, the commission is working to develop a more proactive and visible approach, engaging with the private sector, and encouraging dialogue with companies to address potential issues.
One of the key challenges faced by the EOC has been the appointment of its members, which has been the subject of controversy. The commission's membership was not complete until recently, with the appointment of Mridula Chooromoney, which sparked concerns over potential conflicts of interest. Desvaux de Marigny has clarified that she has no role in the selection process and will not comment on the appointments.
Looking ahead, the EOC's priorities include the digitalization of its case files, which is expected to improve efficiency and reduce delays. The commission also aims to strengthen its presence in the private sector and encourage companies to adopt more inclusive practices. Additionally, it will continue to push for legislative reforms to enhance its powers and address historical inequalities.
The EOC has submitted proposals to strengthen its powers, as outlined in the government's program. The commission is also paying close attention to the recommendations of the Commission Justice and Vérité, which highlight the need to address systemic inequalities and historical discrimination. Desvaux de Marigny is committed to transforming the EOC into a more proactive and visible actor in the fight against discrimination.
As the EOC continues its work, it faces the task of rebuilding trust and demonstrating its effectiveness in addressing the concerns of Mauritian citizens. With a renewed focus on prevention, awareness, and collaboration, the commission aims to make a meaningful impact in promoting equality and combating discrimination in Mauritius.
Key points
- The EOC has seen a significant increase in complaints, handling 202 cases in the past year.
- The commission is working to promote a culture of equality and prevent discrimination, particularly among young people.
- The EOC aims to strengthen its presence in the private sector and encourage companies to adopt more inclusive practices.
