Illustration (screenshot): Siri Dokken
On 23 September, the Norwegian government presented its National Strategy for an Open and Enlightened Public Discourse. The Director of WEXFO contributed in a panel at the official launch.
The strategy sets out key principles for how the Norwegian state will safeguard freedom of expression and ensure a well-functioning public sphere in the years ahead.
The launch comes at a time when polarization, disinformation, and threats against journalists and minorities are increasing, both in Norway and globally. The government emphasizes that freedom of expression is not self-sustaining, and that democratic resilience requires long-term preparedness and shared responsibility.
“We want to build a society where everyone truly has the opportunity to take part in public discourse. Where freedom of expression is not just a formal right, but a real one – supported by knowledge, access, and safety,” said Minister of Culture and Equality Lubna Jaffery in a government press release.
World Expression Forum (WEXFO) participated in the launch event at Fritt Ord in Oslo. Managing Director Kristenn Einarsson contributed to a panel discussion on how to protect freedom of expression for vulnerable groups and ensure broad participation in public discourse.
Kristenn Einarsson, second from the left in the panel (photo: The Ministry of Culture and Equality)
“There is a fundamental need to develop strong reading skills and foster active citizenship. Literacy is a prerequisite for freedom of expression and a well-functioning democracy. In Lillehammer, local and regional partners are working together in a coordinated effort called Reading Boost Lillehammer, where WEXFO is a contributor. The results are very encouraging. My main advice to the Minister is to build on this model and expand it nationally,” said Einarsson.
The strategy is based on the Norwegian Constitution’s infrastructure requirement, obligating the state to facilitate free expression for all, and is based on the findings of the Freedom of Expression Commission (2022) and its broad public consultation process.
Rather than listing specific measures, the strategy outlines a framework for future efforts, focusing on:
- Infrastructure: media, education, internet, libraries, civil society.
- Expression culture: participation, tolerance, and inclusion.
- Openness and access: transparency, whistleblower protection, and safe conditions for public debate.
- Harmful speech: high threshold for introducing new bans or criminal sanctions.
- Distorted discourse: addressing disinformation, echo chambers, and polarization.
- Knowledge: ensuring updated insight into the state of public discourse.
The strategy will be followed up through a dedicated webpage on regjeringen.no, where updates and initiatives will be published continuously.
