The Norwegian Women's Public Health Association is Norway's largest women's organization; our purpose is to improve women’s health and living conditions as well as contribute to a safe and inclusive society for all. We serve this purpose through the voluntary activities of our members, funding research, political advocacy, and providing non-profit services in the healthcare and social sectors.
The Norwegian Women's Public Health Association was founded in 1896, and we have stood together to improve health and living conditions ever since. We work in local communities as well as on the national level.
Today, NKS builds on the proud heritage and efforts of our foremothers, as an organization committed to serving others. Throughout its history, the Norwegian Women's Public Health Association has always asked – who needs us most? This has made NKS an organization that sees the needs of its time and directs its voluntary efforts where the need is greatest.
NKS sees women's living conditions as a multifaceted concept – therefore our commitment covers a wide range of issues. We work to improve women's rights in society generally, as well as offer support to groups of women in particularly vulnerable positions, such as victims of domestic violence. We work for women in all stages of life and are well known for our fund-raising campaigns to support research on women's health.
We are also committed to the safety of local communities and provide care and support in connection with search and rescue situations, natural disasters, and accidents. We are also a non-profit service provider in the Norwegian healthcare and social sectors.
NKS is a significant contributor to society. We are active in central forums, in collaboration projects and events, as well as serving as a consultative body for public authorities.
About us
- Approximately 44 000 members in 550 local chapters form the backbone of NKS.
- NKS exists in all parts of Norway, with strong roots in local communities.
- The organization is run according to democratic principles through elected bodies. The National Board is the organization's highest executive authority between the national conventions.
- Through their elected representatives on the local, county, and national levels, the members decide the organization’s activities and priorities.
- The Norwegian Women's Public Health Association is non-religious and politically independent.