The modern labor market changes as society changes. Employees should be treated equally, regardless of age, gender, race, beliefs, etc. Such a right is guaranteed in international and national legal acts. Despite legal regulations, the situation of different groups varies. The subject of the issue is extremely extensive, therefore the article summarizes selected data on the realities of the labor market, which are juxtaposed with the legal framework within which it should function. In the article European statistical data was used. The author has analyzed literature in the field of law and human resources management, legal acts.