Särbehandling

Särbehandling, in a Swedish context, denotes the act of treating someone differently from others in a similar situation, either more favorably or less favorably. It can be intentional or the result of implicit biases, and may target individuals or groups.

Contexts include employment, education, healthcare, housing, and public services. In policy and law, särbehandling can be used as a tool to promote equality, such as through targeted measures aimed at historically disadvantaged groups, but it can also refer to unfair discrimination when the different treatment lacks legitimate justification.

Legal framework varies, but in Sweden the Discrimination Act prohibits discrimination; it also allows positive measures intended to achieve equality, provided they are proportionate and objectively justified. In practice, determining when särbehandling is legitimate depends on the context, purpose, and proportionality.

Examples: In recruitment, prioritizing candidates from underrepresented groups to improve diversity; in education, extra support or accommodations for students with documented disabilities; in healthcare, accessible facilities or interpretation services for patients with limited language skills.

Ethical and practical considerations: Särbehandling can raise questions about fairness, transparency, and the balance between individual rights and collective goals. It can reduce bias if well designed, but risks stigmatization or perceptions of unfairness.

Criticism: claims of unfairness toward others, potential stigmatization, and challenges in balancing merit, equity, and efficiency. Proponents argue it can correct past disadvantages and promote equal opportunities.

See also: likabehandling, diskriminering, positiv särbehandling, special measures, equality.