The Norwegian Constitution is gender neutral in its formulation. It contains no explicit provision of gender equality or prohibition against gender discrimination. These areas are regulated by the Norwegian Gender Equality Act. The Act relating to Gender Equality was adopted by the Parliament in 1978. The Act came into force in 1979, has been amended several times, most recently in 2005. The Act promotes gender equality and aims in particular to improving the position of women. Women and men shall be given equal opportunities in education, employment, cultural and professional advancement. The law is based on the principle of non- discrimination which is the cornerstone and basis for promoting gender equality.