In 2025, a total of 6,831 complaints were filed with the Equality Ombudsman (DO), representing a 32 percent increase compared to the previous year. Cases of alleged discrimination on the grounds of ethnic affiliation within the restaurant and nightclub industry are among the types that are on the rise.

From 2024 to 2025, the number of discrimination reports increased from 4,452 to 5,697. The increase has occurred across all grounds of discrimination. Most complaints still concern disability and ethnic affiliation.

Regarding discrimination connected specifically to ethnic affiliation within the restaurant and nightclub sector, many of those reporting are men. Many describe having been denied entry by security guards, while others claim that they were initially allowed in but later thrown out.

According to the Equality Ombudsman some individuals experience being unjustly suspected by restaurant staff because of their ethnic background. Some complaints concern guests being denied a table when visiting a restaurant and told it was fully booked, despite there actually being seats available.

According to the reports, the grounds for refusing entry often refer to reasons other than ethnic affiliation, such as claims of intoxication or specific dress codes.

To counteract discrimination, the Equality Ombudsman is now working to increase awareness of the prohibition of discrimination among people working in the restaurant and nightclub sector, while also aiming to strengthen knowledge and raise awareness of rights and the possibility to report discrimination to the DO among those who have been subjected to it.