Human Rights
Promoting human rights and principles of democracy lies in the heart of the Norwegian foreign policy. The implementation of this policy is carried out on a multilateral level, through the UN and the European Council, and at a national level. The Human Rights Council in Geneva is an important venue for the international human rights work. Although Norway's membership in the Human Rights Council ended in 2012, the Council will continue to be one of the most important forums for the promotion of Norwegian human rights politics. As an observer state, Norway will continue to play an active role as promoter, initiator, critic and liaison. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a leading institution in promoting and protecting human rights in the UN system, as human rights are increasingly relevant to peace and security, development and humanitarian efforts. OHCHR is an important partner for Norway, both in raising important human rights issues internationally and in affecting positive change at national level. Norway has been one of the largest contributors to the OHCHR for a number of years. In May 2011, Foreign Minister Støre and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navanethem Pillay signed an agreement in on a financial contribution totaling NOK 180 million in support of the OHCHR’s activities in the period 2011–2013, mostly unearmarked. Norway’s total financial support in 2012 amounted to more than 11 million USD.
In a joint declaration with the EU, Norway expresses concern following the sentencing of a homosexual couple in Malawi to 14 years’ imprisonment. Read more
On Sunday, Iran executed five Kurdish activists in the Evin prison in Teheran. The executions were carried out at a critical point prior to the anniversary of the 2009 election. Read more
The situation for human rights defenders, women's rights and freedom of speech were some of the issues raised by Norway in the examinations during the Universal Periodic Review. Read more
The Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jonas Gahr Støre, commented, “I am very pleased that Norway’s initiative has resulted in a unanimous decision in the UN Human Rights Council on such an important issue.” Read more
Norway participates actively in the Human Rights Council. The statements made during the 13th session can be found here. Read more
Gry Larsen, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway, emphasized the gap between norms and implementation of human rights in Norway's statement during the High Level Segment of the Human Rights Council. Read more
The situation for human rights defenders, women's rights and freedom of speech were some of the issues raised in the examinations during the Universal Periodic Review. Read more
Ambassador Bente Angell-Hansen underlined that relief efforts should take into account the rights and special needs of children and women in Norway’s statement during the special session of the Human Rights Council. Read more
The Norwegian delegation to the hearing on 21 January was lead by Audun Lysbakken, Minister for Children, Equality and Social Inclusion. Read more
Norway welcomes the decision of the Russian State Duma to approve ratification of Protocol No. 14 to the European Convention on Human Rights. Read more
“Norway is concerned about developments in East Jerusalem. The Palestinian population is subject to ever-increasing pressure,” said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. Read more
Israeli authorities have presented plans to build nearly 700 housing units in East Jerusalem. Read more
A number of opposition figures and demonstrators have been arrested in Iran. “Norway is concerned about the situation in Iran,” commented Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. Read more
The situation for human rights defenders, women's rights and freedom of speech were some of the issues raised in the examinations during the Universal Periodic Review. Read more
On the day of the Nobel Award Ceremony Norway and Sweden call attention to the treatment of Shirin Ebadi, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2003. Read more
Norway will provide NOK 40 million (USD 7 million) to UN efforts to combat female genital mutilation and violence against women in developing countries. At the same time, Norway will contribute NOK 20 million (USD 3.5 million) to the new UN Fund for Gender Equality. Read more
The report of the UN Fact Finding Mission is thorough and deserves to be treated in a serious manner by the Council, stated Minister Counsellor Beate Stirø. Read more
The Norwegian psychologist enters a new four-year term as one of ten independent experts who examine State Parties' implementation of the Convention against Torture. Read more
Norway's Ambassador Bente Angell-Hansen chaired the OHCHR Consultation on business and human rights held on 5th and 6th of October, together with the Ambassador of Nigeria, Mr. Martin Ihoeghian Uhomoibhi. Read more
In a statement by Norway, delivered by Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ms. Gry Larsen stated that establishing equality between men and women remains a priority for the Norwegian government. Read more