Suvatne gives himself a 4.5/6 in "Debatten" debut: – Went off the rails sometimes

Steinar Suvatne has completed his first broadcast as the host of "Debatten," Norway's prominent debate program. Reflecting on his performance, Suvatne rated himself between a 4 and 4.5 out of 6, admitting that he "went off the rails" occasionally but felt the overall broadcast had good energy and focus.

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The temperature, I think, was good, there was good pressure here. I think we hit the topics and the spirit of the times well.

The inaugural episode delved into the complex issue of freedom of speech. It featured a heated exchange between AUF leader Gaute Skjervø and Document.no editor Hans Rustad concerning online hate speech and the moderation of comment sections. Skjervø criticized Rustad's platform for failing to adequately address hateful content, while Rustad acknowledged the difficulty in removing all offensive material due to capacity constraints.

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It is completely unrealistic with a six out of six in the first broadcast.

Further discussion revolved around the controversial decision to award the Fritt Ord prize to the rap duo Karpe. Fritt Ord board chairman Bård Vegar Solhjell defended the choice, emphasizing the importance of supporting provocative voices. However, commentator Elin Ørjasæther questioned this logic, suggesting that if provocation is the sole criterion, then hateful comments from social media should also be recognized.

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I earnestly ask Norwegian editors, including those on the right, to take responsibility for it, and I experience getting an incredibly passive attitude back.

To navigate the boundaries of legal and illegal speech, the program also presented examples, including one constructed by the "Debatten" editorial team, referencing expert opinions from freedom of speech specialist and law professor Anine Kierulf. Suvatne expressed a desire to maintain a calm demeanor, even using the band Oasis as a mental anchor during the broadcast.

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This is sewage.