"Not a one-man job"

The Research Council of Norway wants more women at the helm of the Centres of Excellence. But the centres themselves are afraid of losing the competition for funding if they choose a female director.

Ethnic diversity challenges academia

It was high time to put more focus on ethnic diversity, according to stakeholders in academia. But there is scepticism about expanding the KIF Committee’s mandate even further.

New anti-discrimination act with a twist

The Liberal Party ensured that the Norwegian Government got majority approval for its proposal for a joint anti-discrimination act, with a few exceptions. Most importantly, the employer’s reporting duty will continue, although it is unclear how.

Thanks to observers, committees gave more money to women

There was something peculiar about the discussions when research grants were being awarded, according to the committee chair. Something did not feel right. Then the Swedish Research Council began sending observers to the meetings.

What is diversity management?

A good diversity manager views differences as a resource, and is aware that employees may need adaptations, according to a Norwegian researcher.

Ethnicity cannot be counted

Counting the number of women and men is considered to be rather unproblematic. But how do you measure diversity?

Diversity statistics raise new questions

The percentage of immigrants and people with an immigrant background has increased in all position categories and subject areas in Norwegian research. This is one of the findings from the first official diversity statistics for academia.

More want gender-competent managers

The University of Agder is now requiring its new upper-level managers to have competency in gender equality, based on a model from NTNU – and other institutions are considering following suit.

Puts gender equality on the map

Gender equality is one of six priority areas in the new ERA Roadmap for research – and there will be regular follow-up of progress in this area in all European countries.

Male gender quotas denied

Both the University of Oslo and the University of Bergen are hoping that the Gender Equality Act will be amended. It is the only way they will get their wish to use gender quotas to admit men to professional studies in psychology.