Kvoteutvalg

Kvoteutvalg, or a quota committee, is a body established to evaluate and implement quotas intended to promote representation of underrepresented groups in organizations and institutions. It is typically created by government agencies, regulators, or large organizations to advance policy goals such as gender diversity or minority inclusion.

Its mandate includes analyzing current representation data, setting target quotas (for example, a percentage of seats on boards or committees), proposing phased timelines, and recommending supporting measures such as inclusive recruitment practices, training, and mentoring programs. It also assesses exemptions, monitors progress, and publishes reports to the appointing authority. In some contexts it may propose changes to laws or regulatory guidelines to facilitate compliance.

Composition and operations: Members are appointed by the relevant authority and may include independent experts, representatives of affected groups, trade unions, management, and other stakeholders. The committee typically operates with transparency appropriate to its remit, may hold consultations or hearings, and relies on data-driven methods such as representation audits and impact assessments to inform its recommendations.

Context and criticisms: Kvoteutvalg appears in corporate governance, the public sector, and political reform debates. The use of quotas can be controversial, with concerns about merit and tokenism, while supporters argue that quotas promote legitimacy, broaden perspectives, and improve decision-making. Effectiveness depends on enforcement, concrete timelines, and complementary measures such as leadership development for underrepresented groups.

See also: Quotas in politics; Board diversity; Gender representation; Equal representation.