Everyday racism is the small and large demeaning experiences many face because of skin color, background, or religion. In Norway, such discrimination is forbidden, and you have rights. Here is what everyday racism is and what you can do.

What is Everyday Racism?

Everyday racism is the racism that happens daily: a comment on the bus, the question "where are you really from?", being overlooked in a shop, or not being invited to a job interview because of your name. These are often "small" incidents, but they repeat themselves and can wear you down over time.

Discrimination based on ethnicity, skin color, language, religion, or national origin is forbidden by law in Norway. This is stated in the Equality and Anti-Discrimination Act, which applies to all areas of society – employment, housing, school, and public services.

You Are Fully Within Your Rights

Experiencing racism is not something you just have to tolerate. Research shows it is widespread: 39 percent of immigrants report experiencing discrimination in the last year, compared to 21 percent in the rest of the population (SSB, 2024). It most often occurs during hiring and in the workplace.

Putting words to what you experience is the first step. It is not an exaggeration to react, and you have several places to turn to.

What You Can Do

If you experience discrimination, you can do several things:

  • Write down what happened: date, location, who was there, and what was said. Keep messages and photos.
  • Contact the Equality and Anti-Discrimination Ombud (LDO). They provide free legal guidance to anyone with a question about discrimination. LDO does not decide cases, but explains your rights.
  • File a complaint with the Discrimination Board. The board handles discrimination complaints for free and can in some cases award compensation. You do not need a lawyer.
  • Report hate crimes to the police. If you are threatened or subjected to hateful speech because of skin color, religion, or background, it may be criminal under the Penal Code § 185. The police have been instructed to prioritize hate crimes.

Knowing your rights is connected to discrimination in the workplace and human rights in Norway.

If Your Child Experiences Racism

Children can also experience racism, at school or in their free time. All children have the right to a safe school environment, and the school has a duty to intervene against bullying and racism. If your child experiences this:

  • Talk to your child and take their feelings seriously.
  • Inform the class teacher and principal, and ask the school for a plan (an action plan).
  • If you do not get help, you can contact the county governor or a local bullying ombud.

Showing your child that they are not alone, and that the adults are taking responsibility, means a lot.

Norway Works Against Racism

Racism and discrimination are taken seriously in Norway. The government has its own action plan against racism and discrimination for 2024–2027, with 50 initiatives in employment, youth, and local communities. Municipalities, organizations, and schools also work against racism.

At the same time, everyday racism continues to affect many people. An example that received much attention was the racism against athlete Grace Bullen after a video in traditional dress on May 17. Such cases show why it is important to speak up.

You Belong

Being subjected to racism can hurt and make you feel like you do not belong. But you have the same right to be in Norway, at work, and in society as everyone else. Use your rights, seek support from LDO or an organization, and remember that the law is on your side.

Rights, equality, and how society works are topics on the civics test. On SamfunnPrep you can learn more and practice for free. Ready to practice? Try SamfunnPrep for free.