SDG-week seminar: Pathways to Inclusivity in Nordic Universities
The Nordic countries are known for their strong performance in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Yet, challenges or significant challenges at the national level remain in implementing for example SDG 8 on decent work and economic growth ( The Sustainable Development Report 2024 on SDG 8 ). Challenges also remain for SDG 10 on reduced inequalities in other Nordics but Iceland and Denmark ( The Sustainable Development Report 2024 on SDG 10 ). Implementation of SDG 5 on gender equality is more advanced as the status differs from achieved (Sweden, Norway, Denmark) to remaining challenges (Finland, Iceland), however, the differences are caused by the gender wage gap ( The Sustainable Development Report 2024 on gender wage gap ).
Recent research from Finland highlights some of the key inclusivity challenges in universities: inadequate implementation of equity and non-discrimination plans, the underrepresentation of women and ethnic minorities in senior academic positions, non-transparent recruitment processes, disparities in career progression among ethnic minorities ( when compared to the majority population), discrimination experienced by these minorities, and non-inclusive working culture ( KOTAMO project ). Moreover, problems of internal equity work in universities are very practical, as access to information, resources, and the mandate to act are perceived as inadequate and as an administrative formality ( Johanna Lätti, 2024 ). Also from the disability inclusion perspective, several challenges of exclusion and discrimination remain despite the good reputation Finland has in global arenas ( Katsui & Laitinen (eds.), 2024 ).
What is the role of universities as employers and educators in addressing the different inclusion-related SDGs? How can universities better address the key inclusivity challenges for the staff (administration, teaching, and research) and students?
In this seminar, leading experts on diversity and equity share their insights on enhancing inclusivity in Nordic universities. The seminar's target audience is the university faculty and staff, as well as researchers and students interested in these issues. The seminar is free of charge and you may come to listen on-site or join online. The seminar is part of the SDG week at Hanken School of Economics, the work of the NUAS Sustainability group, and Hanken's Corporate Sustainability course.
Please contact prme@hanken.fi for any questions and if you require any accommodations for your participation. The auditorium is located at Arkadiankatu 22, Helsinki, and is accessible. You may read more about the diversity and accessibility of Hanken here: Hanken for equality and diversity | The handle .
Examples of related SDG targets and indicators:
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5.5 Ensure women's full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic and public life
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5.5.2 Proportion of women in managerial positions
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5.c Adopt and strengthen sound policies and enforceable legislation for the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls at all levels
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8.5 By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value
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10.2 By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, regardless of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status
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10.3 Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard
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10.3.1 Proportion of population reporting having personally felt discriminated against or harassed within the previous 12 months on the basis of a ground of discrimination prohibited under international human rights law
Photo credits: Hisayo Katsui's photo is taken by Veikko Somerpuro.