Gender Equality

In the Faroe Islands we are committed to gender equality. Men and women have equal rights in various aspects of life, such as education, work, pay, and healthcare. Gender discrimination, which is treating people unfairly due to their gender, is against the law. In the Faroe Islands, we encourage shared responsibilities between genders especially when it comes to childcare and family life.

WHAT IS THE EQUALITY COMMISSION

The Equality Commission is an independent commission under the Ministry of Social Affairs and Culture. Its remit is set out in the Gender Equality Act, which purpose is to eradicate all forms of gender inequality. Furthermore, the commission is also the board of appeal for complaints in the Ban on Disability Discrimination in the Labour Market Act.

The Equality Commission shall:

  • fulfil the tasks set out in the Gender Equality Act

  • monitor that the Equality Act is upheld

  • advise the authorities, institutions, companies and individuals on equality issues

  • make recommendations in equality matters

  • handle complaints due to gender discrimination