Sturla Stålsett

Sturla Stålsett is a Professor of Diaconal Studies, Religion, and Society at MF Norwegian School of Theology, Religion and Society, where he has held this position since 2014. Effective August 2025, he will assume the role of Rector at MF. He holds a Doctor of Theology (Dr. theol.) from the University of Oslo (1998), with a dissertation on Latin American liberation theology. His academic work bridges systematic theology, diaconal studies, and social sciences, focusing on themes like human vulnerability, interreligious dialogue, and the intersection of religion and societal challenges.

Stålsett has extensive leadership experience, including serving as Secretary General of the Church City Mission (2006–2013) and leading the University of Oslo’s research program Religion in a Globalised Age (2002–2005). His research emphasizes ethical, political, and theological implications of global issues such as migration, poverty, and religious pluralism. Key contributions include his leadership of the government-appointed committee that produced the influential report Det livssynsåpne samfunn (2013).

His research interests include liberation theology, political theology, and the role of religion in contemporary society. Recent work explores themes like vulnerability, diaconal economics, and the intersection of religion with sports and public life. Notable publications include Hellig makt. Studier i politisk teologi (2025) and articles on liberation theology, interreligious dialogue, and global ethics.

Awarded the title of Merited Teacher (2024), Stålsett has also held board positions in organizations like the Norwegian Refugee Council and the World Council of Churches. His academic and leadership roles reflect a commitment to interdisciplinary scholarship and societal engagement.