Sara Was Not Allowed to Wear Hijab at Work – Civil Rights Defenders files Discrimination Lawsuit

When Sara* decided to start wearing hijab at work, she was told that it was not allowed. Since then, she has not been given any shifts and has had to look for a new job. Now, Civil Rights Defenders files a lawsuit against the security firm Rapid Security AB for discrimination.

The firm referred to its neutrality policy with regard to political, philosophical or religious symbols and expressions during working hours, and contended that the prohibition concerns the firm’s responsibility to ensure a safe work environment and the personal safety of their employees.

According to Civil Rights Defenders, Sara’s legal representative, Sara was subject to discrimination, as she was disadvantaged due to her religion. Her employer, Rapid Säkerhet AB, must comply with the prohibition of discrimination in the Discrimination Act, which prohibits employers from discriminating against employees. Rapid Säkerhet AB’s actions also violate the right to freedom of religion in accordance with the Swedish constitution.

“This is a clear case of discrimination in which the employer not only refuses our client the ability to work, but also enforces regulations that alienate Muslim women more generally” said John Stuffer, Legal Director at Civil Rights Defenders.

Read more in an article in Swedish.