Focus on the General Equal Treatment Act: What you should know as a specialist

In the world of work, fairness is not just a wish, but a fundamental right. This is ensured by the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG). It protects applicants and employees from discrimination and thus promotes equal opportunities. It is therefore important to know how this law supports you in the application process and in everyday working life.

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What is the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG)?

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The AGG is a legal framework. It protects you from discrimination based on your race, ethnic origin, gender, religion, disability, age or sexual identity. It accompanies you from your job search to your last day at work and ensures that you are judged according to your abilities, regardless of your personal characteristics.

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What does the AGG mean for skilled workers?

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For you as a specialist, the AGG means additional security. It ensures that everyone has the same opportunity in the application process and is assessed according to their knowledge and skills. Injustices, such as a preference for younger applicants or a particular gender, are not permitted. 

But what exactly does this look like in practice? We'll show you now!

For example, job advertisements must not use wording that excludes certain groups of people. 

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There are also clear rules in the job interview. This means that you may only be asked questions that are related to your suitability for the job. 

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Important to know

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It is important to know that you do not always have to answer all questions. If someone asks you a question that is not allowed, you can decide whether you want to answer it or not. And if you decide not to answer or not to tell the truth, nothing bad will happen to you for it. However, it is a good idea to remain polite and explain to the questioner that the question has nothing to do with the job. 

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In which cases is unequal treatment permitted?

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In exceptional cases, however, it may be permissible to treat people differently. However, there must be a good reason for this. For example, it is permitted to only look for women for a night job in a girls' home. Or in a kindergarten that belongs to the Christian community, to only employ a person of Christian faith. You should be aware that such exceptions are rare and need to be checked more closely.

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What can you do if you are treated unfairly?

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If you feel discriminated against, it is advisable to talk to your employer or the HR department first. This will allow you to clarify any misunderstandings or unconscious prejudices directly. If you feel you have not been successful, you can take legal action. Seek support from trade unions or legal advice centers.

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Your rights and options

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Do you feel disadvantaged in the application process or at work and a conversation with a responsible person has not helped? Then you have the option of reporting this to the works council or an anti-discrimination office. You can also claim compensation. Please note, however, that this is only possible if you have suffered a disadvantage as a result of the discrimination. Make a written record of when and how the discrimination took place and whether there are any witnesses. This can serve as evidence in a possible legal dispute.

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Extra tips

• Be proactive: Find out about your rights and obligations under the AGG. The better informed you are, the more effectively you can protect yourself.
• Use internal complaints channels: Many companies have their own complaints offices or procedures for reporting discrimination. Use these channels to draw attention to problems.
• Seek external advice: If you need outside support, there are numerous advice centres and organizations that can help you.

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Our career advisors are on hand throughout the application process to make sure you're treated fairly. So when you apply through WorkerHero, you can rest assured that we'll be with you every step of the way. 

Register on WorkerHero today and find your new job as a skilled worker soon!

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