Non-discriminatory working life: The state of discrimination in employment and the promotion of equality

Abstract

In this report, we describe the prevalence of discrimination in employment and the prevention of discrimination in recruitment.

First we study the prevalence and the state of discrimination in employment. We employ multiple perspectives and data sources achieve this. Survey data describe the experienced and observed discrimination on multiple grounds, such as gender, age, ethnic or national origin, language, religion or persuasion, opinion, political activity or trade union activity, health, disablement and sexual orientation. Administrative legal data on discrimination statements or convictions form the core of discrimination data. These data are supplemented with register and survey data.

We also examine the prevention of discrimination in recruitment. Research literature shows credibly that multiple groups are discriminated against in recruitment. The literature does not help to identify interventions (e.g. influencing recruiter beliefs, using technology in recruitment, anonymization of recruitment process, communication efforts aimed at candidates) that would systematically function to reduce discrimination in recruitment. We also report preliminary results in City of Helsinki anonymous recruitment experiment.

This publication has undergone an external scientific review.

Publication Information

Kanninen, O., Virkola, T., Lilja, E., & Rask, S. (2022), Tavoitteena syrjimätön työelämä : Työsyrjinnän nykytila ja keinoja tasa-arvon ja yhdenvertaisuuden edistämiseksi, Publications of the Government´s analysis, assessment and research activities 2022:20.

• ISSN: 2342-6799 (Online)
• ISBN: 978-952-383-362-3 (Online)