What does affirmative action aim to achieve?

Affirmative action aims to ensure equal opportunity in employment and education by addressing and correcting historical inequalities and discrimination faced by marginalized groups. The principle behind affirmative action is to create a level playing field where individuals from various backgrounds have the same access to opportunities, particularly in areas where systemic barriers have previously limited their chances of success.

This approach goes beyond simply increasing hiring quotas; it involves proactive measures to promote diversity, inclusion, and representation in educational institutions and workplaces. By emphasizing equal opportunity, affirmative action seeks to dismantle structural disadvantages and foster an environment where everyone, regardless of race, gender, or socioeconomic status, can thrive based on their abilities and contributions.

The focus on merit-based systems alone or restriction of access is contrary to the goals of affirmative action, as these approaches do not account for the inequities that have historically impacted certain groups. Overall, the intent of affirmative action is to promote fairness and equity in sectors that have long been affected by systemic discrimination.