Non-Discrimination Ombudsman

Overview

The task of the Non-Discrimination Ombudsman is to advance equality in Finland and to prevent and tackle discrimination. The Non-Discrimination Ombudsman is an independent and autonomous authority. You can turn to the Non-Discrimination Ombudsman if you have experienced or witnessed discrimination on the basis of age, ethnic or national origin, nationality, language, religion, belief, opinion, political activity, trade union activism, family connections, state of health, disability, sexual orientation or other personal characteristics.

Brief history

The Non-Discrimination Ombudsman was founded 1.1.2015. when the new Non-Discrimination act came to force. Before the ombudsman was named “Ombudsman for minorities” and had only mandate to tackle ethnic discrimination.

Governing laws and regulations

Mandate

Sectors covered

Private, Public

Legal standing before the courts

Representing victims of discrimination before the courts, Bringing proceedings in the name of the equality body [with or without an identifiable victim] but on behalf of one or more individual person(s) who consents to this., Amicus curiae brief or similar

Functions

• Making recommendations on claims of discrimination [or other decisions on the merit that are not legally binding]
• Undertaking ex-officio investigations
• Organising training, advising and capacity-building activities for particular stakeholders on meeting their obligations
• Organising awareness raising and communication activities
• Advising government on the development, adoption and amendment of law and policy
• Monitoring national law and policy from an equality perspective
• Carrying out specialist research on equality and non-discrimination
• Reporting to national and international bodies on discrimination issues
• Networking with relevant entities in the country and internationally

Fields and grounds

Other grounds

Opinion, political activity, trade union activity, family relationships, nationality, language and other personal characteristic.

Other mandates of the institution

Multi-mandate equality body

• Office of Ombudsman

Statistics

Institution

Management and Appointments

Management

Single headed equality body (led by director or ombudsman/commissioner)

Non-Discrimination Ombudsman is the head of office with the independent right to choose employées and prioritise.

Procedure for nomination and appointment of management and board

The Non-Discrimination Obudsman is appointed By the Government.

Regional or Local offices

This institution does not have regional officies.

Accountability

National Parliament

Number of staff

Operating budget