Define: Quota

A quota is a predetermined numerical limit or target set by an organisation or government to regulate or control certain activities or outcomes.

Quotas can be legal or illegal depending on the context and purpose. In some cases, quotas may be used to promote diversity or equal opportunity, which can be legally permissible. However, if quotas are used to discriminate against certain individuals or groups based on protected characteristics such as race or gender, they may be considered illegal.

Employers can use quotas in hiring under certain circumstances. Affirmative action programs, for example, may allow employers to set quotas to increase diversity and representation of underrepresented groups. However, these quotas must be narrowly tailored and not result in the exclusion or discrimination of other qualified candidates.

Quotas in college admissions are generally not allowed. The Supreme Court has ruled that strict racial quotas in college admissions are unconstitutional. However, race can still be considered as a factor among many others in a holistic review process to promote diversity.

Quotas can be used in government contracting to promote diversity and inclusion. Many government agencies have set goals or targets for awarding contracts to minority-owned or women-owned businesses. However, these goals are typically aspirational and not strict quotas.

Quotas in sports teams are generally not allowed. Professional sports leagues and organisations typically have rules and regulations that prohibit quotas based on race, gender, or other protected characteristics. Selections are usually based on merit and skill.

Quotas are commonly used in immigration policies to regulate the number of individuals allowed to enter a country. These quotas are often based on factors such as family relationships, employment opportunities, or refugee status.

Quotas are generally not used in jury selection. Instead, the selection process aims to ensure a fair and impartial jury by considering a diverse pool of potential jurors based on various factors such as age, gender, occupation, and residency.

Quotas in school admissions are generally not allowed. Schools must adhere to fair and non-discriminatory admission practices, considering factors such as academic performance, extracurricular activities, and personal achievements.

Quotas can be used in political representation to ensure fair representation of underrepresented groups. Some countries have implemented quotas to increase the number of women or minority representatives in legislative bodies. However, the use of quotas in political representation varies across jurisdictions.