Tasks of the Ombudsman for Equality

The Ombudsman for Equality is an independent authority whose main duty is to supervise compliance with the Act on Equality between Women and Men.

Tasks of the Ombudsman for Equality: 

• Monitoring compliance with the Act on Equality between Women and Men, particularly its prohibitions of discrimination
• Providing information about the Equality Act and its application
• Promoting the implementation of the Equality Act’s intention by means of initiatives, advice and guidance
• Monitoring the implementation of equality between women and men in different sectors of society
• Taking action to promote reconciliation in matters concerning discrimination referred to in the Equality Act.

The Ombudsman has powers on matters related to gender, gender identity and gender expression. The powers of the Ombudsman consist of both combating discrimination and promoting equality. The Ombudsman carries out his tasks primarily by providing guidance and advice.

The Ombudsman for Equality is located under the administrative branch of the Ministry of Justice.

Ombudsman for Equality

Rainer Hiltunen started his five-years-term (2023-2027) as Ombudsman on Monday, April 17, 2023.  The Government appointed Rainer Hiltunen to the position of Ombudsman for Equality in March 2023.

Rainer Hiltunen, Master of Laws, has a long career in promoting fundamental and human rights. Before his post as the Ombudsman for Equality, Hiltunen worked for more than 20 years at the Non-Discrimination Ombudsman’s Office. 

The Ombudsman for Equality works to promote gender equality and prevent discrimination. The main task of the Ombudsman is to monitor compliance with the Equality Act and especially its prohibitions on discrimination.