The Norwegian Government’s aim for a 40 per cent representation of women in company boardrooms is soon a reality according to officials.
"As we are approaching the end of the year, the situation is better than it has ever been before. Thirty-three per cent of board members are now women," Ms Marit Hoel, researcher at the Center for Corporate Diversity tells the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation.
"Efforts to promote the appointments of women to company boards have produced good results. During this year alone, more than 120 female board members were appointed," said Minister of Trade and Industry Dag Terje Andersen.
Core policy
Gender equality has been a core policy in Norwegian politics since 1913 when women obtained the right to vote. On 1 January 2004, company legislation regarding board representation for all state-owned companies was amended. It became mandatory for the boards of such organisations to have a minimum of 40 per cent representation of each gender. The current government aims to secure a 40 per cent representation of women on all boards including public limited companies.
Two of Norway's female ministers. Minister of Health and Care Services Sylvia Brustad and Minister of Children and Equality Manuela Ramin-Osmundsen. Photo: Henrik Mevold.
Female majority in the Government
In the autumn of 2007, following a cabinet reshuffle, women won the majority in the government for the first time. Magnhild Meltveit Kleppa replaced Åslaug Haga as Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, whilst Haga replaced Odd Roger Enoksen as Petroleum and Energy Minister. Hence, women now hold ten out of the 19 ministerial posts in the current Government.
International outlook
Norway has set itself the aim of increasing women’s participation internationally. In 2006, Norway launched its action plan for the implementation of Security Council resolution 1325 on women, peace and security.
Norwegian family policies aim to secure equality between parents. Photo: Ole Marius Grønlien/ MFA Norway.
Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs