Impartiality in administrative proceedings
To ensure sound management of state funding, we have established procedures to ensure that our employees, referees and board members are impartial in the work they perform.
It is important for all our users to know that the individuals who are preparing the basis for or taking a decision in a case are impartial. A person may be disqualified if, for instance, he or she has a close professional association with a party to the case or has a potential for personal gain or loss in connection with a decision.
Legislation and regulations on impartiality
All individuals who take part in decision-making at the Research Council must comply with the provisions relating to impartiality set out in Chapter II of the Public Administration Act.
In addition, we have separate provisions on impartiality that clarify and elaborate on the statutory provisions. In some areas, our regulations are more stringent.
Regulations on Impartiality and Confidence in the Research Council of Norway.pdf.
The Research Council Impartiality and Appeals Panel
The Research Council has established a dedicated Impartiality and Appeals Panel to provide advice on questions relating to impartiality to all Research Council employees, referees, board members and members of advisory bodies.
Messages at time of print 17 January 2026, 22:53 CET