Affirmative action refers to policies designed to improve access to education, employment, and other opportunities for groups that have historically faced discrimination. Originally implemented in the United States during the 1960s civil rights era, these measures aimed to reduce inequality for African Americans and other marginalized communities. Over time, similar policies were introduced in countries like India, South Africa, and Brazil, targeting historically disadvantaged castes, racial groups, or indigenous peoples. Affirmative action may include quotas, outreach programs, or preferential treatment in university admissions and hiring.
　　　Supporters of affirmative action argue that it promotes fairness by addressing the long-term effects of social and economic inequality. They believe that providing targeted opportunities helps individuals from underrepresented backgrounds overcome systemic barriers. In education, for example, affirmative action can create more diverse learning environments, which benefit all students by encouraging broader perspectives. In the workplace, it can help companies reflect the societies they serve and foster inclusive cultures. Without such policies, many qualified applicants from disadvantaged groups might remain overlooked due to unconscious bias or limited access to resources.
　　　However, affirmative action has sparked debate and legal challenges. Critics argue that it may lead to reverse discrimination, where individuals from majority groups are unfairly disadvantaged despite strong qualifications. Some also question the fairness of making decisions based on group identity rather than individual merit. In response, some institutions have shifted to more holistic approaches—considering a wide range of factors including life challenges, socioeconomic status, and personal achievements. Others focus on improving access to quality education from an early age to reduce inequality at its root. While opinions remain divided, most agree that achieving genuine equality requires a careful balance between addressing past injustices and ensuring fairness for all individuals today.