King Harald's 2016 Speech on Norwegian Identity Hailed After His Passing

A decade-old speech by Norway's late King Harald, titled "Norway is One," is resonating deeply in the wake of his passing, drawing widespread praise for its powerful message of national unity and inclusion. The address, delivered in 2016 during a garden party celebrating his 25th anniversary on the throne, has become a poignant reminder of the monarch's vision for the country.

During the 2016 event, attended by 1,500 guests representing a cross-section of modern Norway, including politicians, artists, refugees, and people of all ages, King Harald articulated his perspective on what it means to be Norwegian. In the context of the 2015-2016 refugee wave and subsequent immigration debates, his words offered a unifying definition of national identity.

"Norwegians are engaged young people and old people with life experience. Norwegians are single people, divorced people, families with children, and old married couples. Norwegians are girls who like girls, boys who like boys, and girls and boys who like each other," the King stated. He continued, "Norwegians believe in God, Allah, the Universe, and Nothing. Norwegians like Grieg and Kygo, Hellbillies and Kari Bremnes. In other words: Norway is you. Norway is us."

This inclusive definition of Norwegian identity has been analyzed and celebrated since its delivery. Following King Harald's death, the speech has been frequently quoted by mourners, columnists, and politicians. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, in his memorial address, highlighted the speech's significance: "'Norway is you. Norway is us.' It shows something fundamental about his view of the country he was king of. Everyone was to be included. He was a king who listened and saw us and who cared for us with all his heart."

King Harald concluded his "Norway is One" speech with a hopeful message for the nation's future. "When we sing 'Yes, we love this country,' we shall remember that we also sing about each other. For it is we who make up the country. Therefore, our national anthem is also a declaration of love for the Norwegian people," he said. "My greatest hope for Norway is that we will manage to take care of each other. That we will build this country further, on trust, community, and generosity. That we will feel that we, despite all our differences, are one people. That Norway is one."