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Decorative graphic with gears, circular elements, and the word ‘SchuDS’ (Central Counseling Office for Protection Against Discrimination and Sexualized Violence), symbolizing technical processes and collaboration. © Nicole Jansen​/​TU Dortmund

North Rhine-Westphalia Passes State Anti-Discrimination Act (LADG)

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Text 'LANDES-ANTI-DISKRIMINIERUNGSGESETZ' over multiple stylized star shapes in green and orange tones with a justice scale symbol © Stabsstelle CFV​/​TU-Dortmund
The State Anti-Discrimination Act (LADG) is intended to significantly strengthen protection against discrimination in the public sector and promote a culture of respect.

The North Rhine-Westphalia State Anti-Discrimination Act (LADG NRW) strengthens the protection of individuals against discrimination by state public bodies (e.g., universities, schools, state agencies). The goal is to prevent discrimination, promote equal opportunity, and foster a culture that values diversity.

The LADG is intended to ensure that people have equal access to state services and programs, regardless of their personal characteristics. The LADG closes a gap in the protection provided by the AGG and now offers students an additional legal framework to prevent discrimination in their dealings with state agencies and to defend themselves against such discrimination.

About the State Anti-Discrimination Act

Which grounds for discrimination are protected?

The law provides protection against discrimination based on various characteristics. These include racist, anti-Semitic, or anti-Roma attributions; nationality; gender; gender identity; ethnic or social origin; religion or belief; disability; chronic illness; age; sexual orientation; parenthood; and family caregiving responsibilities.

What Can Affected Individuals Do?

Under certain conditions, those affected can demand that ongoing discrimination be stopped and its consequences remedied. In certain cases, they may also be entitled to damages or compensation.

An important point of contact is the independent Ombudsman’s Office for the LADG. It provides free information and advice on rights under the law and helps assess a specific case and clarify possible courses of action. It also seeks to resolve conflicts amicably and out of court whenever possible.

More Than Just Protection in Individual Cases

Public agencies should also review their structures and procedures as a preventive measure. They should identify potential risks of discrimination early on and take appropriate measures to prevent, eliminate, or mitigate discrimination. Anti-discrimination efforts should therefore not begin only after discrimination has already occurred. Furthermore, the design of rules, procedures, and services offered by public institutions should be as free from discrimination as possible.

At TU Dortmund University

At TU Dortmund University, all members of the university community can easily contact the Counseling Center for Protection Against Discrimination and Sexual Harassment and Violence (SchuDS for short) in cases of discrimination and sexual violence. Counseling there is confidential, impartial, and, upon request, anonymous.

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