Gender-equal Norway, a reality for all? The views and experiences of immigrants

Norway is known to be among world leaders in gender equality and this is supported by increasing volumes of research in this field. However, there is sparse empirical evidence about the views and experiences of immigrants on gender equality. Consequently, this study sought to provide an ‘outsider’s perspective’ on gender equality by engaging with immigrants living in Norway. This study presents findings from in-depth interviews with 27 immigrants living in Stavanger, Norway on their views and experiences of gender equality. Data from the interviews were analysed based on the constructivist grounded theory approach. The study’s findings revealed that the participants perceived equal rights at home and in the workplace, through state policies and women’s independence, as major indications of gender equality. Although the study suggests that gender equality appears to flourish in Norway, multiculturalism and feminization emerged as challenges towards achieving gender equality in Norwegian society. To address these challenges, it is important for Norwegian society to acknowledge the existence of multiculturalism and engage with it appropriately.