This text has been translated from Norwegian with the assistance of GPT UiO.
– What preoccupies you at the moment?
– At the moment, I'm very concerned with how we can enhance resilience against the rise of authoritarian trends. For two decades, I have been researching far-right parties, movements, and political violence, grounded in fieldwork among voters in countries like the UK, Hungary, and Israel. Although we have extensive knowledge about what drives support for exclusionary nationalism, populism and authoritarian politics, we still have less insight into how we can effectively strengthen liberal democracy and protect fundamental rights.
– I am also working on the follow-up to the Extremism Commission's NOU “Joint Efforts Against Extremism: Improving Conditions for Preventive Efforts,” which offered recommendations to the government to improve Norway's ability to prevent extremism.
– Additionally, I have developed a new subject called “The Anthropology of the Far Right,” which I will be teaching in the autumn. I am involved in an international EU project focusing on the drivers of extremism and hate campaigns, aiming for knowledge-based prevention.
– If you were to explain to an eight-year-old what you are doing in three short sentences, what would you say?
– I work on figuring out why some people and groups think that not everyone should have the same rights. My goal is to find out how we can make democracy stronger and stop the spread of hate and extremism, so everyone is treated well and with respect, regardless of their background.
– What motivates you in your job?
– What truly motivates me in my job is the opportunity to teach and guide students, helping them find their own path and voice. I am passionate about new knowledge, curiosity, and a thirst for learning, and anthropology provides me with a unique opportunity to explore the diversity of life experiences and perspectives.
– I am also inspired by my colleagues and the opportunities to bridge academia and society, particularly through engagement with decision-makers and the public.
– If you were to become something different, what would it be?
– If I were to choose a completely different career, I would become a nature photographer. This would allow me to combine my passion for the outdoors with the art of photography. I love being in nature and capturing the changing seasons through the lens.
– Alternatively, I would become a lawyer, where I could fight for fundamental rights and work to stop authoritarian attempts to undermine democracy. Both paths would give me the chance to make a difference, whether through art or advocacy.
– What do you do to completely unwind?
– When I completely unwind, I spend a lot of time running long distances in varied terrain. This provides replenishment and space for free thought.
– In addition, I spend many hours on the football field with two active girls. Everyday life with football, and as Tottenham supporters, brings joy, fellowship and relaxation.