Freedom of peaceful assembly
Activists block building in protest against oil expansion
In January 2024, Norway's decision to award 62 new oil and gas licences sparked fierce protests from environmental groups outside the Norwegian Petroleum Agency's annual seminar in Sandefjord. On 16th January, around 35 demonstrators from the Extinction Rebellion initiative blocked the entrance to the Scandic Park in Sandefjord and prevented some conference participants from entering. Their action was intended to disrupt the event, at which energy minister Terje Aasland and executives from major oil companies were due to speak about the future of the oil industry. The protesters argued that the expansion of fossil fuel exploration runs counter to global efforts to combat climate change and voiced their concerns about environmental hazards and increased carbon emissions. The heavy police presence emphasised the intensity of opposition to extractivist Norwegian policies that encourage further exploitation of the country's natural resources.
Sámi rights activists charged over participation in protests
In January 2024, media reported that some 20 activists have been charged over their participation in protests against the Norwegian government’s plans to build wind turbines on Sámi grazing land. As previously reported by the CIVICUS Monitor, in the first half of 2023, hundreds of Sámi and environmental activists staged a series of demonstrations to demand the demolition of wind farms, blocking roads and even entering and occupying the Parliament building. On 13th October, the demonstrations continued, with protesters blocking the entrances of 11 government ministries and marching to the Royal Palace.
The exact charges against the 20 protesters are not known at the time of reporting. According to the VG newspaper, the protesters were charged because they did not accept the fines they were given after being forcefully removed by police, and will face trial in March.