The German government’s anti-discrimination agency, the ADS, received a record 10,772 complaints in 2023, a 22% increase from the previous year. Commissioner Ferda Ataman expressed concern over the rising trend during the presentation of the report, highlighting the normalization of discriminatory attitudes in society.
Common Types of Discrimination:
Racist discrimination accounted for the largest share of complaints, followed by cases related to disabilities, gender identity, ageism, religion, worldview, and sexual orientation.
Where Discrimination Occurred:
The workplace was the most common source of complaints, followed by daily life settings such as restaurants, supermarkets, and public transport. Instances of discrimination were also reported from public agencies, police, and the justice system.
Call for Reforms:
Ataman urged the government to expedite reforms to the AGG law on equal treatment, promised in 2020. She emphasized the urgency of addressing hate and racism in daily life, stressing the government’s responsibility to those affected by discrimination.
The ADS, established in 2006, emphasizes the need for legal reforms to combat discrimination effectively and protect the rights of all individuals.