Discrimination and xenophobia in Norway

Discrimination

Worse treatment linked to ethnicity, national origin, skin colour, language, religion or another protected characteristic may be unlawful. A rule that looks neutral can also disadvantage a group.

Harassment

Humiliating, hostile or threatening conduct linked to a protected characteristic can be harassment.

Xenophobia and hate crime

Hostility towards people perceived as foreign can take different forms. Not every offensive statement is a crime; threats, violence or hateful statements may require police involvement.

Where it can happen

Work and recruitment

Renting a home

School and education

Public services, shops and online

Get to safety

If you or someone else needs urgent police help, call 112. Avoid a confrontation that puts you at risk.

Keep the facts

Write down the date, place and what was said or done. Keep messages, screenshots and any written refusal; note witnesses.

Ask for guidance

If you are unsure, describe the situation to LDO. You do not need to decide the legal classification yourself.

Where to get help

LDO provides free guidance on discrimination and harassment. You can ask anonymously and request an interpreter. LDO does not decide complaints or act as your lawyer.

Diskrimineringsnemnda decides complaints within its remit, free of charge. A formal complaint is not anonymous: the other party receives information so they can respond.

Contact the police about threats, violence or suspected hate crime. For a non-emergency call 02800. A police tip is not the same as a formal report.