Can my employer discriminate against me in Sweden?
No — discrimination, harassment and reprisals in working life are forbidden. Under the Discrimination Act (2008:567), an employer may not discriminate against employees or applicants on any of the seven grounds: sex, transgender identity or expression, ethnicity, religion or other belief, disability, sexual orientation and age. The employer must also work actively to prevent discrimination and make an annual pay survey. If the ban is breached you can get discrimination compensation, and you can report to the Equality Ombudsman (DO).
📋 The rules
- A ban on discrimination on seven grounds
- The grounds: sex, age, ethnicity, religion, disability and more
- The employer must work actively and make a pay survey
- A breach brings discrimination compensation
- You can report to the Equality Ombudsman (DO)
🔓 Exceptions
- Age differences are allowed with a legitimate aim that is appropriate and necessary
- Genuine occupational requirements (e.g. sex or religion tied to the job) can be allowed
- Positive action to promote gender equality
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Discrimination compensation is paid to the affected person — the amount is not fixed in law but set higher than ordinary harassment compensation. The Board against Discrimination can order a conditional fine for failures in the active work.
📎 Official sources
- DO · The Discrimination Act →
- DO · Active measures for employers →
- Discrimination Act (2008:567) · Riksdagen →
❓ Frequently asked
What counts as discrimination at work?
Being disadvantaged on any of the seven grounds, for example sex, age or ethnicity.
What are the grounds of discrimination?
Sex, transgender identity, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation and age.
What can I get if I was discriminated against?
Discrimination compensation, set higher than ordinary harassment compensation. The amount is not fixed in law.
Where do I report discrimination?
To the Equality Ombudsman (DO), which supervises and can litigate cases in court.
Can the employer ever treat differently by age?
Yes, if there is a legitimate aim and the measure is appropriate and necessary.
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