Non-Discrimination Act in Estonia
What Is This Law About?
The Non-Discrimination Act in Estonia ensures everyone is treated fairly and equally. Its main goal is to prevent discrimination based on personal characteristics like race, gender, age, disability, religion, or sexual orientation. The law applies to many areas of life, including employment, education, healthcare, and access to goods and services.
Key Provisions of the Law
1. Protected Groups – The law prohibits discrimination against people based on:
- Race, nationality, or ethnicity
- Gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity
- Age, disability, or health status
- Religion, beliefs, or political opinions
- Family status or other personal circumstances
2. Areas Covered – The law applies to:
- Workplaces – Employers must ensure equal hiring, promotions, and pay opportunities.
- Education – Schools and universities must not discriminate against students.
- Public Services – Healthcare, housing, and government services must be accessible to all.
- Goods & Services – Businesses (like shops, banks, or restaurants) must serve customers fairly.
3. Reasonable Accommodation – Employers and service providers must make necessary adjustments for people with disabilities, unless it causes unreasonable hardship.
4. Harassment & Victimisation – Bullying, offensive behaviour, or punishing someone for reporting discrimination is also illegal.
5. Enforcement & Complaints – If someone faces discrimination, they can file a complaint with the Estonian Gender Equality and Equal Treatment Commissioner or take the case to court.
Important Dates
- The law was first introduced in 2008 and has been updated over time.
- The latest consolidated version (as of 2023) includes amendments to strengthen protections.
Based on the Official Document
This explanation is a simplified summary of the Non-Discrimination Act in Estonia. For full details, refer to the official text here:
https://www.riigiteataja.ee/en/eli/521052023002/consolide