Honorary doctor with a focus on children’s rights

The Faculty Board decided on 2 April to appoint Pernilla Baralt as honorary doctor for 2025. With a long career in both Swedish politics and international cooperation, Pernilla Baralt has been a leading voice for children’s rights and education.

Since 2019, Pernilla Baralt has served as Secretary General of UNICEF Sweden. She has previously worked as State Secretary at the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs and held several senior positions within the European Commission. Throughout her professional life, Pernilla Baralt has worked to bridge research, practice and policy, always with a focus on the best interests of the child.

Collaboration with faculty researchers
Pernilla Baralt has had a close connection to the Faculty of Education through her role on the UNICEF board, where she has promoted collaboration with researchers from the University of Gothenburg. One concrete example is the partnership surrounding a digital language preschool, developed in collaboration with the Akelius Foundation and UNICEF, involving researchers from the Department of Education, Communication and Learning (IPKL) in a project on language learning for preschool staff.

Pernilla Baralt has also been involved in the conference Preschool children, language & participation: Centre for multilingualism – a tool, organised in collaboration between UNICEF and the University, with the participation of several researchers from IPKL.

Pernilla Baralt holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and international relations from the University of Gothenburg and has since worked within the EU, the Swedish Government Offices and civil society.

A key link between academia and society
In its citation, the Faculty Board emphasises that Pernilla Baralt is a strategically important link between academia, public-sector actors and non-profit organisations. Through her involvement in Queen Silvia’s Professorship in Global Child and Youth Health, she has contributed to translating research into practical change for children and young people.

“The knowledge and experience that Pernilla Baralt brings is highly valuable for the faculty’s continued work. Her commitment and strategic ability make her an important resource in the efforts to promote children’s rights, equitable education, and a society free from violence,” says Dean Christina Osbeck.

Pernilla Baralt’s appointment as honorary doctor will be recognised during the University of Gothenburg’s doctoral conferment ceremony on 17 October.