Legislation

Equality and equal treatment is regulated under Finnish national legislation, European Community law, and international agreements binding on Finland. The Constitution contains a prohibition of discrimination and an obligation to promote gender equality. The Act on Equality between Women and Men, otherwise known as the Equality Act, contains regulations on promoting gender equality and prohibiting gender-based discrimination, as well as the consequences of violating these regulations. The Act on the Ombudsman for Equality contains regulations on the tasks of the Ombudsman for Equality. 

Discrimination is forbidden under employment law, which also includes a general obligation on the equal treatment of staff. 

Among other things, the Criminal Code prohibits gender-based discrimination at work and in business.

Discrimination not based on gender

The Non-Discrimination Act contains regulations on promoting equal opportunities and prohibiting discrimination on the basis of age, ethnic or national origin, nationality, language, religion, belief, opinion, health, disability, sexual orientation or other personal characteristics.

Discrimination on these grounds is also prohibited under the Constitution, the Employment Contracts Act, and the Criminal Code.

The Non-Discrimination Ombudsman and the National Non-Discrimination and Equality Tribunal monitor compliance with the Non-Discrimination Act and the realisation of equal treatment. Occupational Safety and Health officials at Regional State Administrative Agencies (AVI) monitor compliance with the Non-Discrimination Act at places of work. Persons who feel they have been discriminated against at work or during recruitment on grounds that are prohibited by the Non-Discrimination Act can turn to the relevant Occupational Safety and Health Inspectorate.

The Ombudsman for Equality and the National Non-Discrimination and Equality Tribunal monitor compliance with the Equality Act and the realisation of equal treatment outside working life. Labour protection officials (AVI) monitor compliance with the Equality Act at places of work. Persons who feel they have been discriminated against at work or during recruitment on grounds that are prohibited by the Equality Act can turn to the relevant Occupational Safety and Health Inspectorate.

Labour protection officials (AVI)