Sweden : from proactive policies to anti-discrimination law

The high scoring of the Nordic countries indicates that the Nordic way of striving for gender equality has been successful in a global perspective. Gender equality is an essential element of the Nordic welfare state model, interwoven with and dependent on general welfare measures that shape everyday life for individuals and the organization of society. Anti-discrimination legislation, primarily directed towards the protection of individuals, forms just part of the comprehensive and progressive measures that have been adopted in Sweden in order to achieve gender equality. Despite the high ratings given to gender equality in Sweden in international comparisons and its ambitious gender equality policy and extensive legislation aimed at promoting gender equality and eliminating discrimination, many challenges remain. Together with the other Nordic countries, Sweden is internationally considered a role model and a forerunner for gender equality