The invention relates to an electromagnetic optical element which scatters radiation in a diffuse manner. Such optical elements can be used in nearly all projection applications including front and rear projection, display applications, (cinema) screens and similar. On the surface of a claimed optical element, a surface profile is provided, the surface structure of which is non-repeating and irregular. Elevations are formed that have a height by means of which a phase shift Δϕ may be achieved that is greater than two and a half times the longest wavelength used, and the elevations have a lateral extension in one plane respectively, in all axial directions, that is greater than five times the longest wavelength used. The individual elevations have a continuous form in the three spatial axial directions and said elevations are devoid of edges, ledges and fissures.