Stronger together: As union members, we all move in the same direction

Challenges are piling up in the knowledge sector.

In such situations, a trade union is invaluable. Forskerforbundet represents all knowledge workers, both technical-administrative and academic staff. 

We assist our members with what they need during difficult times, such as advice, legal support, and advocating their case to politicians. 

– In times of cuts, restructuring, and downsizing, it is especially important to be unionized, says Steinar A. Sæther, professor at the University of Oslo and president of Forskerforbundet.

– It has never felt more important to stand together than it does now

In recent years, significant cuts and restructuring have marked the knowledge sector. This affects not only individual administrative, technical, or academic staff, but the entire ecosystem that ensures the functioning of institutions.

Cecilie W. Lilleheil is a union representative and a member of the Executive Board of Forskerforbundet. She has an administrative background from the University of Oslo, where, among other things, she has worked as a senior advisor for PhD studies. 

Now, in challenging times, she believes it is more important than ever for the knowledge sector to stand united.

– I think many have taken the security of the knowledge sector for granted, but that security may not always be there, says Lilleheil.

– Alone, we are quite vulnerable. Now, it is important to stand together, dare to take a stand, and show that the work we and our colleagues do is important – both in Norway and abroad.

Lilleheil views Forskerforbundet as an important community with a strong voice in the fight for rights and fundamental societal values.

– We all belong to the same community of knowledge workers. We all value the importance of safeguarding knowledge. Knowledge and the pursuit of truth form the foundation of democracy, bind us together, she says. 

– It has always been meaningful to be a part of the knowledge sector and Forskerforbundet, but now it feels more important than ever.

A large network that can help you reach your goals

For Forskerforbundet, it is crucial to support those who are new to the knowledge sector — especially in terms of creating a network, president Steinar A. Sæther explains. 

For many, a membership can provide an important push forward in their careers, regardless of which part of the knowledge sector they wish to enter.

– Forskerforbundet is very useful for developing your professional network. Becoming a member gives you access to a large professional community. 

The union leader emphasizes that active members gain access to various arenas that provide valuable advantages in professional contexts.

As a trade union, we have a vast network of people in positions ranging from universities and colleges to directorates, archives, libraries, and museums, to name a few.

The interaction that keeps the wheels turning 

Regardless of what type of knowledge worker you are, you are part of the essential interaction that constitutes the knowledge sector. 

Technical-administrative staff play a crucial role in the knowledge sector. They contribute to ensuring that institutions fulfil their societal mission by developing and maintaining the framework for research, education, dissemination, and innovation.

The interaction between technical-administrative and academic staff is marked by mutual dependence and collaboration. When this functions well, it leads to a more effective, innovative, and well-functioning institution. 

As we now face uncertain times in the knowledge sector and society at large, Forskerforbundet fights for security and predictability for all our members. 

We provide the support you need – regardless of your role.