Fighting discrimination in plain language

Starting position/challenge

Because too little is known about the legal framework, people suffering discrimination are often unable to defend themselves. In addition, discrimination and the lack of equal opportunities remain taboo topics in working life. The resulting sense of insecurity felt by those affected and their supporters due to this lack of knowledge means there are insufficient prevention or appropriate countermeasures.

Implementation of the guide as a tool

The removal of structural barriers to integration and participation without discrimination are only achievable if those suffering discrimination feel empowered through the transfer of knowledge. The aim of the guide entitled “Discrimination results in exclusion, and no defence in certain defeat!” (“Wer diskriminiert wird, wird ausgeschlossen – und wer sich nicht wehrt, hat bereits verloren” ) is to provide those affected as well as disseminators with a clear practical tool. It is aimed at people who are threatened or affected by racist, sexist or religious discrimination and at those supporting these individuals. The target groups are mainly migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees with and without recognition—regardless of their residency status.

The main challenge for the managers of the project “Fighting discrimination with the law!” in the Network IQ Schleswig-Holstein was to convey legal issues in clear and simple language and at the same time to ensure the correctness of the content. The focus of that publication’s content is on aspects of protection in a professional context using the key legal instrument of the General Act on Equal Treatment (Allgemeinen Gleichbehandlungsgesetzes, AGG). Lots of different practical examples give those affected the chance to identify their own situation and find out how they can act against discrimination and disadvantage. The use of diagrams, practical checklists and illustrations which can be understood intuitively reduces hangups and reluctance surrounding abstract legal issues and makes it easier to access information about the right to discrimination-free participation. The guide explains what discrimination is and illustrates this using examples of everyday situations in which discrimination occurs. It introduces courses of action and recommends how those affected can behave in situations in which discrimination occurs. The brochure provides detailed information about the General Act on Equal Treatment (AGG) and shows how those affected can defend themselves against unequal treatment using the law.

Conclusion

The high demand for the guide from IQ trainers and from external personnel managers shows how this tool for explaining legal anti-discrimination regulations is meeting a significant demand for information which has so far not been provided in this form. The use of in-house initial and advanced education and training for employees will help to combat the taboo themes such as unequal treatment and restricted opportunity to participate in working life.