The discrimination grounds covered in the Icelandic Constitution are sex, religion, opinion, national origin, race, colour, financial status and parentage. The list is non-exhaustive as the provision also sets out that equality before the law and non-discrimination shall be ensured irrespective of the aforementioned grounds but also irrespective of ‘other status’, which can be construed as to include age.

The definitions set out in the Directives have not been transposed into domestic law. No clear definitions of the protected grounds are found in national legislation and definitions of direct and indirect discrimination, harassment, victimisation, instruction do discriminate and reasonable accommodation are lacking in this context. No exceptions are explicitly allowed for religious organizations and the law is silent on ‘genuine’ and ‘determining’ occupational requirements. Certain exceptions in relation to age requirements and physical form are found in national legislation, e.g. governing those working as police officers, fire fighters and prison guards.

No national rules address multiple discrimination and no cases have been adjudicated dealing with such situations. It is envisaged that the draft comprehensive anti-discrimination act to be presented in the Parliament in the fall of 2012 will include a provision addressing multiple discrimination.

Directives 2000/43/EC and 2000/78/EC have not been transposed into national law and limited sanctions exist. No specific procedures have been established to deal with discrimination on the grounds enumerated in the Directives. The sole discrimination complaints body, the Gender Equality Complaints Committee, deals with gender discrimination only.