In the run up to International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, Norwegian Ambassador to India and Sri Lanka, May-Elin Stener talks about this year’s theme ‘For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment’ and outlined three essential steps to promote gender parity.

First, she stresses the importance of solid legal frameworks and stable institutions that uphold global norms and national legislation beneficial for gender equality. Second, she highlights the need to address power dynamics to ensure empowerment and inclusiveness. Lastly, she emphasises the importance of building women’s capacity, enabling them to make their own choices regarding their lives, bodies, and economic and political participation. While progress has been made, she acknowledges that significant efforts are still required to achieve full gender equality.

Turning to climate change, Stener underscores its significance, citing Norway’s position as an Arctic nation that experiences rapid climate shifts. She points to the alarming rate of ice melting in the Arctic, which has seen a 10% reduction every decade. This phenomenon not only affects Norway but has global repercussions, including influencing monsoons in India. She stresses the need for collective action to protect the Arctic and mitigate climate change’s broader impact.

One crucial aspect of combatting climate change, according to Stener, is the energy transition. She emphasises the urgency of reducing carbon emissions and limiting global warming to 1.5°C as outlined in the Paris Agreement. While acknowledging India’s strides in renewable energy, she points out that coal usage must decline further. Norway and India’s cooperation in clean energy initiatives presents an opportunity for progress in this area. Additionally, she addresses the problem of plastic pollution, urging greater action to reduce plastic usage and improve waste management practices.

On the topic of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Stener reflects on Norway’s high ranking at number six compared to India’s 109th position. While acknowledging Norway’s achievements in gender equality, clean energy, and economic growth, she recognises India’s unique challenges due to its vast population. She expresses admiration for India’s progress in areas such as poverty reduction, clean energy, health, and economic expansion, noting that India is currently the world’s fastest-growing economy. Stener urges a balanced perspective that considers India’s successes rather than focusing solely on numerical rankings.

Regarding Norway-India relations, Stener highlights the long-standing partnership between the two countries, which has evolved significantly in recent years, particularly in the green energy sector. She notes that Norway has strengthened its presence in India, recognising the country’s pivotal role in achieving global Sustainable Development Goals. With over 130 Norwegian companies operating in India, many are focused on participating in the energy transition and green development initiatives. The signing of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement nearly a year ago has further cemented economic collaboration, paving the way for increased Norwegian investment in India’s green economy.

Stener also addresses the common perception that developed countries prioritise technological advancement over collaboration or technology transfer. She refutes this claim in Norway’s case, citing multiple examples of Norwegian companies actively engaged in technology transfer and co-development with Indian partners. One notable example is the collaboration between Norwegian company Nel and India’s Reliance Industries in establishing a hydrogen value chain through the production of electrolysers. She also mentioned Oivi, a Norwegian medtech startup that utilises AI-driven eye scanners for diagnostics, demonstrating successful technological integration. Larger companies such as Kongsberg, Jotun, and Orkla are also contributing to the ‘Make in India’ initiative, reinforcing Norway’s commitment to India’s technological growth.

When asked about key takeaways for Norway from India, Stener acknowledges the vast learning opportunities available from India’s rich history, diverse culture, and rapid economic growth. She expresses a keen interest in taking back insights from India’s innovative solutions and dynamic development strategies. One specific experience she highlights was her visit to Prayagraj during the Kumbh Mela, where she was deeply impressed by the meticulous organisation of the event, particularly the well-structured arrangements for the massive crowd. She praises the efficient setup of changing rooms and overall management, which facilitated a seamless experience for millions of attendees.