Discrimination in Germany is still widespread, according to new official figures. In 2021, the federal anti-discrimination agency recorded 5,617 cases related to violations of relevant laws, the majority – 37% – related to racial discrimination, new anti-discrimination commissioner Ferda Ataman announced Tuesday, Aug. Berlin.

As Ataman noted, the number of breaches has decreased by almost 12% from the previous year, but this is mainly due to “a decrease in the number of requests for consultations related to the coronavirus pandemic and particularly the mask regime”. The number of requests for assistance for all other types of discrimination remained at the same high level.

Fewer people accept discrimination

“The number of discrimination cases reported to us is worrying. At the same time, it shows that more and more people do not want to tolerate discrimination and are seeking help,” said Ataman. He called on all those who feel they are discriminated against for various reasons to fight and, if necessary, go to court.

In addition to cases of racial discrimination, the most common causes of violations in 2021 were discrimination based on disability or chronic illness (32%) and gender (20%). Many victims complained of discrimination in accessing private services (33 percent) and in the workplace (28 percent). Some victims reported discrimination for various reasons.