Sweden
Overview
Please review the information below and then return to the workplace harassment prevention course.
Harassment and discrimination based on a protected characteristic are prohibited under national law.
Applicable Laws
The primary national law prohibiting employment discrimination and harassment on the basis of any protected characteristic is the Discrimination Act.
Protected Characteristics
Harassment or discrimination based on any characteristic set forth below is prohibited in Sweden.
- Gender
- Gender identity
- Ethnicity
- Religion or other belief system
- Functional impairment
- Sexual orientation
- Age
Regional, state or other political subdivision laws may provide additional, separate standards and remedies for certain prohibited conduct.
Definitions
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is conduct of a sexual nature that violates a person’s dignity.
Filing a Claim in Sweden
A complaint related to employment discrimination or harassment may be filed with the Discrimination Ombudsman.
Employment discrimination and harassment claims may also be filed in court.
Potential Remedies
In Sweden, an employee who has experienced workplace discrimination or harassment may be entitled to monetary and other remedies. An employer may be required to take certain actions to correct or redress discriminatory harassment or violations of workplace safety standards. Potential remedies are listed below.
- Reinstatement to a position
- Compensation for lost wages and benefits
- Damages for injury to dignity or feelings
- Cease and desist orders
Retaliation Prohibited
Employer retaliation against an employee who files a complaint relating to discrimination or harassment or is involved in the complaint process is unlawful.
The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only.
It does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice.