In response to growing concerns over the global state of academic freedom, Norway has unveiled a new initiative aimed at attracting international researchers. The Research Council of Norway (Forskningsrådet) has allocated 100 million kroner (approximately 8.6 million EUR) to support research centers in recruiting talent from abroad.
Academic freedom under pressure abroad fuels Norway’s initiative
The backdrop for this bold move is the increasing strain on academic institutions abroad, particularly in the United States. Earlier this year, the Trump administration implemented significant budget cuts affecting research fields such as climate, health, and Arctic studies. Mari Sundli Tveit, CEO of the Research Council of Norway, highlighted that “academic freedom is under pressure and funding is being cut,” prompting an urgent need to support displaced researchers.
While the new scheme is global in scope, the “acute situation” in the USA has notably accelerated its launch. Tveit emphasized the critical need to maintain momentum in areas like climate change research and public health, noting that many affected researchers are experts in these fields.
Funding to secure 30 to 50 new research positions
The initiative is expected to fund between 30 and 50 researcher positions at Norwegian universities and colleges. Norwegian institutions that already receive support from the Research Council are eligible to apply for additional funding to bring foreign researchers onboard.
The policy is not exclusive to USA scholars. Nevertheless, the current challenges in the U.S. — including alleged “forbidden word lists” that reportedly ban terms like “woman,” “black,” and “climate change” from research proposals — have underscored the urgency of Norway’s action.
Minister of Research and Higher Education Sigrun Aasland (Ap) has been a driving force behind the scheme. “Norway has a growing need for expertise in the coming years, particularly in research,” she said, stressing that the program is global, not specifically aimed at the United States.
Positive reception among Norwegian academic leaders
The initiative has been warmly received by academic leaders. Svein Stølen, Rector of the University of Oslo (UiO), called the scheme “very interesting” and noted its potential to bring “top researchers” to Norway. Stølen also pointed out that as China advances its research capabilities, it is essential for Europe to remain competitive.
Similarly, Margareth Hagen, Rector of the University of Bergen (UiB), praised the initiative, highlighting that approximately 22% of UiB’s research involves collaborations with U.S. researchers. She warned that developments in the U.S. have “immediate consequences” for Norwegian institutions, particularly in areas like climate science and global health, where American contributions have traditionally been at the forefront.
As Norway takes proactive steps to secure its position in the global research landscape, the new funding initiative signals a commitment to maintaining high standards of scientific inquiry and safeguarding academic freedom amid uncertain international trends.
