Discrimination

You have the right to be treated equally with everyone else – before, during, and at the end of your employment. This applies regardless of who you are or how you live your life. Discrimination is illegal and is prohibited under the Danish Anti-Discrimination Act.

If you are unsure about what applies in your situation, we are ready to help you. 
What does the law say?
Your employer may not directly or indirectly discriminate against you on the basis of:

• Race, skin colour, or ethnic origin
• Religion or belief
• Sexual orientation
• National or social origin
• Political opinions
• Age
• Disability

This applies to recruitment, pay, transfer, promotion, dismissal, and all other working conditions.

What is direct discrimination?
Direct discrimination means that you are treated less favourably than others in the same situation.

Examples include:

You are not hired because of your religion
You are dismissed because of your sexual orientation
Your employer rejects your application because of a disability
Such actions are illegal – and you are entitled to protection.

What is indirect discrimination?
Indirect discrimination occurs when a seemingly neutral requirement disproportionately affects certain groups – without a legitimate reason.

For example:

A restaurant requires dishwashers to speak Danish, even though it is not necessary for the job
Such requirements are only permitted if they are essential for performing the work. For instance, it is allowed to require fluency in German for a job as a German teacher.

 
Special rules on disability
If you have a long-term condition that limits your ability to work, it may be considered a disability under the Anti-Discrimination Act.

In that case, your employer is obliged to:

Adapt the workplace to your needs
Take concrete and reasonable measures
Ensure that you can perform your job on equal terms with others
Example: If you have chronic back problems, it may be necessary for the employer to provide special equipment, such as an ergonomic office chair.

There is no predefined list of conditions. It is always assessed individually whether you are protected under the law.

What should you do if you are covered by a clause?
If you have questions about your clause – big or small – please contact our legal department.