Equal Treatment and Anti-Discrimination
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Danish Acts of Parliament (love), executive orders (bekendtgørelser), and official government guidance.
Danish National Law
What is this right?
Danish law prohibits discrimination in employment on a wide range of grounds:
- Forskelsbehandlingsloven prohibits discrimination based on race, colour, religion, political opinion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, gender characteristics, age, disability, and national or social origin.
- Ligebehandlingsloven prohibits discrimination based on sex — including pregnancy, maternity, and gender identity — in hiring, working conditions, promotion, and dismissal.
- Ligelønsloven requires equal pay for equal work regardless of sex.
- Harassment related to any protected ground — including sexual harassment — is treated as discrimination.
- The Board of Equal Treatment (Ligebehandlingsnævnet) handles complaints and can award compensation.
When does it apply?
- You are an employee, job applicant, or intern in Denmark.
- The protections cover the entire employment relationship — hiring, conditions, promotion, training, and termination.
- Both direct and indirect discrimination are prohibited.
What should you do?
- Document the discriminatory treatment — save emails, messages, or witness accounts.
- File a complaint with the Board of Equal Treatment (Ligebehandlingsnævnet) — it is free and does not require a lawyer.
- You can also bring a claim in ordinary court for compensation.
- Contact your union — many unions will pursue discrimination cases on your behalf.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't accept being told discrimination is 'just company culture' — it is illegal regardless of workplace norms.
- Don't fear retaliation — it is unlawful to victimise someone for filing a discrimination complaint.
- Don't delay — there is no strict limitation period for the Ligebehandlingsnævnet, but evidence becomes harder to gather over time.
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