Diversity, equality and inclusion

Diversity refers to the differences between individuals in terms of 'characteristics' such as gender, ethnicity, age, skin colour, religion, personality, competence, education, ethnic background, sexual orientation, and more. Diversity can thus encompass both individual traits and group affiliations (social categories).

A key focus within this field of research is the relationship between minority groups and the majority within an organisation or society, particularly in terms of equality, equity, and inclusion. Since an individual can belong to multiple social categories at the same time — and therefore face marginalisation in several categories — intersectionality is a relevant perspective in this research.

In other words, diversity is a complex phenomenon, and the research area covers many different contexts. Some examples include the integration of immigrants and refugees, the living conditions of sexual minorities and people who challenge gender expression norms, recruitment of diverse groups into education and professions, and diversity management in organisations.

Research projects

We have many years of experience in research on diversity, equality, and inclusion. A selection of projects within this research area includes:

• Trygg integrering av LHBTIQ- personer med fluktbakgrunn, for IMDi (2022)
• Arbeidsdeling i hjemmet under koronapandemien for Likestillingssenteret (2022)
• Likestilling og mangfold i maritime næringer og utdanning for Nærings- og fiskeridepartementet (2022)
• MATILDE, et Horisont2020-prosjekt om integrering av flyktninger i distriktsområder (2019-2022)
• TERA, an EEA Grants Norway project about equality in rural areas (2022-2023)
• Kvinner i skogbruket, et prosjekt finansiert av Innlandet Fylkeskommune, Utviklingsfondet for skogbruk og Verdiskapingsfondet (2022)