Nordic Programme on Non-Discrimination

Helping companies lead on equity and inclusion.

Nordic Programme on Non-Discrimination

The Nordic Programme on Non-Discrimination is an online programme designed to support Nordic businesses in advancing equality and inclusion across their operations. If your company is ready to take meaningful steps to identify, assess, and address discrimination-related risks, this programme will guide you through the process with practical tools and expert insights.

Through five expert-led sessions, peer learning opportunities, and individual work, participants will gain a solid understanding of how to assess their impact, prioritize action, and embed non-discrimination across the workplace, supply chains, and communities. The programme will be held online in English.

Join us online for a lunchtime info session on May 21st at 11.30 – 12.15 to learn more about the programme and ask any questions you may have!

What’s the benefit?

  • Learn how to assess and strengthen your non-discrimination efforts with practical tools and guidance to evaluate current performance and build a structured approach across the workplace, supply chains, and communities.
  • Stay ahead of evolving regulations and position your company as a front runner in responsible business practices.
  • Demonstrate commitment and action to your employees, investors and other key stakeholders, while also strengthening your ability to attract and retain top talent.
  • Build internal support and drive commitment to non-discrimination throughout your organization.
  • Engage with a network of peers and experts to exchange insights and work collectively to overcome common challenges and drive progress.

Programme Structure

  • Kick Off

    August (29)
    9.30-11.30 CET

    Introduction to the programme and activities, chance for participants to meet each other.

  • Understanding Non-discrimination

    September (19)
    9.30-11.30 CET

    Definitions and management approaches.

  • Deep dive on specific topics

    October (24)
    9.30-11.30 CET

    Discussion on specific groups and challenges.

  • Adverse impacts and how to address them

    November (21)
    9.30-11.30 CET

    Adverse impacts of targets and backlash.

  • Closing

    December (12)
    9.30-11.30 CET

    Participant presentations on learnings and actions going forward.

Who is it for?

The Nordic Programme on Non-Discrimination is designed for company representatives working with social sustainability, human rights, DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion), human resources or other similar areas. Alumni of the Target Gender Equality Accelerator are also welcome to apply.

This programme is free of charge and open exclusively to participants of the UN Global Compact networks in Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Sweden. Each company can have two participants.

Why now?

Freedom from discrimination is a fundamental human right. However, embracing an inclusive and equitable workforce is not only the right thing to do, it’s also good for business.

Anti-discrimination initiatives foster positive workplace culture, boost creativity and innovation, support talent attraction and retention, increase employee engagement, and enhance reputation.

With growing pushback against non-discrimination globally, it’s now more important than ever for companies to understand how inclusive strategies help mitigate discrimination-related risks and deliver value for business and society. Nordic companies, with strong welfare systems and high equality rankings, are well positioned to lead by example in advancing human rights, equity, and inclusion throughout their operations and value chains.

Apply today!

The programme is open and free of charge to UN Global Compact participants in Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Sweden. Please note that submitting an application does not guarantee participation.

The application period is open until 16 June 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The Nordic Programme on Non-Discrimination runs from August to December 2025, offering expert-led sessions and peer learning opportunities.

    All participants are expected to attend each of the five core sessions of the programme, with each session lasting approximately two hours. In total, participants should plan for an overall time commitment of around 30 hours, including live sessions, individual work, and peer learning activities.

Still have unanswered questions?

Please reach out to Kirti Lickett, Programme Manager on Social Responsibility and Human Rights at UNGC Sweden.