Norway’s academics complain about rising authoritarianism

More than half of Norway’s researchers believe that their working environment is becoming more authoritarian, according to the Norwegian Association of Researchers.

The claim was made last week during a debate at Arendalsuka, a Norwegian political festival held in Arendal every summer. The union said its research showed that 45 per cent of the general working population felt that their working environment was growing more authoritarian.

But among academic researchers, 57 per cent said this was the case, with many saying they had less control over their working environment and decision-making processes. Academics also felt growing pressure to publish research.