Syrjintäkiellot

Syrjintäkiellot are legal prohibitions against discrimination in Finland. These prohibitions are enshrined in several pieces of legislation, primarily the Non-discrimination Act (Yhdenvertaisuuslaki) and the Act on Equality between Women and Men (Tasa-arvolaki). These laws aim to ensure that everyone is treated equally regardless of their personal characteristics.

Discrimination is defined as treating a person unfavorably compared to another person in a comparable situation based on grounds such as age, ethnic origin, nationality, language, religion, belief, disability, sexual orientation, or other personal reasons. The law prohibits both direct and indirect discrimination, as well as harassment and instructions to discriminate.

The non-discrimination legislation applies to various spheres of life, including employment, education, the provision of goods and services, and social security. Employers, educational institutions, and service providers have obligations to prevent discrimination and to promote equality. This can involve measures such as developing equality plans and providing training on non-discrimination.

Individuals who believe they have experienced discrimination can seek redress through legal channels. This may involve filing a complaint with the Discrimination Tribunal (Syrjintälautakunta) or pursuing legal action. The purpose of syrjintäkiellot is to foster a society where all individuals have equal opportunities and are treated with dignity and respect.