This week in Norway
Domestic news in Norway this week included debates on secure browsers for Oslo school exams and politicians' social media conduct, alongside the arrest of a wanted Ukrainian bank manager in Kristiansand. Internationally, Norway participated in Arctic cooperation and joined Western nations in condemning West Bank settlement expansion, while sports news highlighted Viking's winning streak and plans for Erling Haaland's World Cup training.
About Norway
Norway, a prosperous democracy in Northern Europe, is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including dramatic fjords and the Northern Lights. The country consistently ranks among the top globally for press freedom, fostering a robust media environment characterized by a strong public broadcaster and independent private outlets. Its unique geography and high quality of life often shape both domestic and international news coverage.
Visiting Norway
Media landscape
Norway boasts a highly free and diverse media landscape, consistently ranking at the top for press freedom globally. It features a strong public service broadcaster, NRK, alongside a vibrant array of independent private newspapers and digital news sites.
For comprehensive coverage, consult NRK.no, while Aftenposten.no offers in-depth journalism; many Norwegians speak English, but not all local content or signs will be translated.
Sources we track 1
New Norwegian Hospital Lacks Space for New Fathers, Causing Distress
- Stavanger University Hospital (SUS) in Norway faces criticism for insufficient space in its new, expensive facility, impacting postpartum care. - New mothers and their partners are being denied adeq…
Negotiations collapse: Strike looms over Norway's peak holiday season
- Negotiations between NHO and unions for the aviation and tourism sectors have broken down, leading to a risk of strikes during the peak summer holiday season. - The primary points of contention in t…
Poland moves toward banning smartphones in schools
- A government-approved bill in Poland could ban smartphones in all primary schools. - The proposal prohibits electronic devices capable of recording audio or video during school hours. - Exceptions a…
Norway's finance minister criticizes European allies over defense budgets
- Norwegian Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg criticized European allies for complaining about defense budgets, urging them to increase spending or taxes. - Stoltenberg highlighted that many European …
Neurosurgeon Sounds Alarm on Surge in Severe Head Injuries from E-Scooters
- A neurosurgeon has raised the alarm about a significant increase in severe head injuries among young patients using electric scooters. - The prevalence of e-scooters in Trondheim has led to a notice…
Questions linger before coach appointment: 'No secret'
- Magnus Andersson is the strong favorite to become the new head coach of the Norwegian men's national handball team, with Henrik Kronborg as assistant. - Handball expert Ole Erevik questions the timi…
Actors reenact trial in church: "Painful and terrible, but also very interesting"
- Actor Ane Dahl Torp describes a courtroom drama reenactment as "painful and terrible, but also very interesting." - The performance features 28 actors portraying individuals involved in a trial, wit…
Former Olympian warns Norway's sports model is 'sick'
- Former Olympic athlete Leif-Kristian Nestvold-Haugen warns that Norway's celebrated sports model is becoming "sick" due to early specialization and parental pressure. - He argues that the focus has …
Norway's Parliament Speaker meets Iranian 'princess' at Oslo Freedom Forum
- Norway's Parliament Speaker Masud Gharahkhani met with Noor Pahlavi, granddaughter of Iran's former Shah, at the Oslo Freedom Forum. Pahlavi stated her family does not seek to restore the monarchy, …
Solbakken criticizes Bobb's finishing: 'Still living in Lilliput'
- Coach Ståle Solbakken criticized player Oscar Bobb for not finishing a scoring chance against Sweden. - Solbakken wants Bobb to improve his finishing and physical condition before the USA trip. - Bo…
Norway parliament backs state minerals company probe
- The Norwegian parliament has voted to investigate the establishment of a state-owned minerals company or fund. - This decision comes as the Fensfeltet deposit in Telemark is found to be nearly twice…
Swedish Committee Proposes 15-Year Age Limit for Social Media Use
- A Swedish government-appointed committee proposes a 15-year-old age limit for social media use in Sweden. - The recommendation is based on research indicating negative impacts of social media on you…
Generative AI Enables 'A' Exams with 'Zero' Understanding, Norwegian Educator Warns
- Generative AI allows students to produce sophisticated texts on topics they barely understand, raising concerns about genuine learning. - Educators face a challenge in verifying if students truly gr…
Israel Declines Ukraine's Offer of Expert Help Against Islamist Group's Drones
- Ukraine has offered Israel assistance in intercepting drones launched by Hezbollah. Israel has reportedly declined this offer of expertise. This situation arises amid ongoing concerns about drone at…
Police to investigate laser use during Norway's 'russetid' celebrations
- Oslo police are investigating the use of lasers during the Norwegian 'russetid' (graduation celebrations). - Several individuals sustained eye injuries from laser exposure during the festivities. - …
Swedish national indicted for participation in terror organization
- A Swedish national has been indicted in Sweden for participating in the neo-Nazi group MKY, also known as Maniac Murder Cult. - This marks the first time someone in Sweden has been charged with part…
Norway's energy minister discusses electricity support, grid risks, and data center capacity
- Norway's Energy Minister Terje Aasland discussed the future of energy in an E24 podcast. - The 'Norgespris' scheme has significantly reduced electricity bills in Southern Norway, but many have not y…
Seven Killed in Russian Attacks Across Ukraine Overnight
- At least seven people were killed in widespread Russian attacks across Ukraine overnight. - Kyiv and Dnipro reported casualties, with residential buildings hit and fires breaking out. - Ukrainian au…
Sylvi Listhaug wants to change Norway, but needs expert help
- Sylvi Listhaug's Progress Party (Frp) aims to reshape Norway but faces challenges in implementing its agenda. - The party must engage with bureaucracy and experts to translate its political goals in…
EU divided over asylum centers in third countries
- EU lawmakers and member states are attempting to agree on new rules for asylum seekers who have been rejected. - The proposed regulations include establishing asylum centers in countries outside the…
We are not as stupid as you think, Christian Jensen
- A Norwegian opinion piece argues against EU membership, countering a Danish editor's call for Norway to join. - The author contends that Norway's independent stance allows for strong Nordic ties and…
Norway issues new guidelines to combat rising school absenteeism
- Norway is introducing new national guidelines to address rising school absenteeism. - The guidelines, developed by the Directorate of Education in collaboration with several child welfare and health…
Far-right candidate advances to runoff in Colombia's presidential election
- Preliminary results from Colombia's presidential election show a runoff between left-wing candidate Ivan Cepeda and far-right candidate Abelardo de la Espriella. - Cepeda secured 42% of the vote, wh…
Brintellix: A gentler approach to sexual health, but overlooked by doctors?
- Brintellix, an antidepressant, affects multiple brain targets simultaneously and is often sought by individuals experiencing treatment failure or side effects from older SSRI medications. - Despite …
Norway's ice hockey heroes to be honored at football match
- Norway's ice hockey team will be honored at a football match between Norway and Sweden at Ullevaal Stadium. - The team secured Norway's first-ever medal by winning bronze at the World Championships.…
Former Norway Captain Strandberg Battles Lingering Health Issues After Near-Fatal Blood Clot
- Former Norwegian football captain Stefan Strandberg faces ongoing physical challenges after a blood clot nearly ended his life. - Complications from a back surgery and a subsequent leg issue limit h…
Norway housing minister's review of building rules faces criticism
- Norway's housing minister is reviewing building regulations, but critics argue the process is influenced by developers. - The review focuses on balancing health requirements like daylight with desig…
Norway's Strongest Couple Trains in Laksevåg
- The article highlights a couple in Norway who are exceptionally strong, potentially Norway's strongest. - They regularly visit the Odin SK gym in Laksevåg for their training sessions. - The couple e…
Nils began running as a retired 67-year-old. Now he has the fitness of a well-trained 20-year-old.
- Nils Kallevig, who started running at age 67, now possesses the cardiovascular fitness of a 20-year-old. - The 75-year-old competes internationally in half-marathon trail running events. - His dedic…
Lars Hektoen had sound peasant sense and his feet firmly planted on the ground
- Lars Hektoen, remembered for his common sense and grounded nature, passed away unexpectedly on April 28, 2026. - He was a founding member of the 'Varg' club, which evolved from a poker group to a sp…
Ravatn: One-year-olds in kindergarten are not the best example of a 'sick culture'
- Author Agnes Ravatn reflects on the concept of a "sick culture," suggesting that the behavior of one-year-olds in kindergarten is not the best example. - The article references "From Ape to Sapiens …
Norwegian sports need a boost in culture and leadership
- Norwegian sports leadership and governance structures have not evolved at the same pace as athlete professionalism over the past 30-40 years. - Modern sports management involves billions of kroner, …
Excessive pre-World Cup meal leaves Norway coach Solbakken with stomach ache
- Norwegian national football team coach Ståle Solbakken described a pre-World Cup team meal prepared by celebrity chef Eyvind Hellstrøm as excessive. - Solbakken humorously recounted the experience, …
Preparing for the heat: Norway's football team told to use saunas
- Norway's national football team is preparing for the World Cup in hot conditions by using saunas. - Players have been advised to spend time in saunas to acclimatize to temperatures that have reached…
Norway leads world in sugar-free cola and osteoporosis: Experts see a worrying link
- Norway leads the world in sugar-free cola consumption and osteoporosis cases. - Multiple studies suggest a potential link between high intake of diet soda and bone fragility. - Experts express conce…
Is Norway heading towards authoritarianism? A Hungarian perspective
- A Norwegian perspective questions whether the country is drifting towards authoritarianism, drawing parallels with Hungary. - The article argues that authoritarianism develops gradually by eroding d…
Chaos in Paris after Champions League triumph: Over 400 arrested
- Paris Saint-Germain secured their second consecutive Champions League title after defeating Arsenal on penalties. - Celebrations in Paris turned violent, with over 400 arrests and seven police offic…
Arsenal should consider selling captain Ødegaard, say analysts; player wants to stay
- English media reports suggest Arsenal may consider selling captain Martin Ødegaard this summer. - Analysts cite his injury-plagued seasons and contract situation as reasons for a potential sale. - Ø…
Arteta Protests Arsenal Penalty Denial in Champions League Final
- Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes a penalty should have been awarded in extra time of the Champions League final against PSG. - The incident involved Noni Madueke falling in the PSG box after a …
Renate Reinsve Shines in New Horror Film 'Uvanlig horrorlek'
- The film "Uvanlig horrorlek" (Unusual Horror Play) features Renate Reinsve in a lead role, with her face described as perfect for horror. - The film marks the feature debut of 20-year-old director K…
PSG are legendary: French stars celebrate second consecutive Champions League title
- Paris Saint-Germain has won the Champions League for the second consecutive year, defeating Arsenal on penalties. - Key players Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué were instrumental in the victory and a…
Sweden seeks fewer electricity price zones for uniform rates
- Sweden's government aims to reduce the number of electricity price areas to create more uniform prices across the country. - Norwegian industry organizations and E.On Sverige support the initiative,…
PSG defends Champions League title, beating Arsenal on penalties
- Paris Saint-Germain defended their Champions League title by defeating Arsenal 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. - Arsenal's captain Martin Ødegaard was substituted in the 66th minute and did not p…
Police seize powerful laser devices from Norwegian student buses
- Police in Bærum, Norway, confiscated laser devices from 12 out of 13 inspected "russebusser" (student celebration buses). - The confiscated equipment included 15 laser units of Class 4, the most pow…
Liverpool manager Arne Slot departs after two years
- Liverpool Football Club has confirmed manager Arne Slot's departure after two years. - The club cited a need for a "change of direction" to move forward, despite Slot's success in his first season. …
Norway's Ice Hockey Team Sets High Bar, Surpassing Expectations at World Championship
- Norway's ice hockey team has achieved unprecedented success in the World Championship, surpassing expectations. - The team secured victories against strong opponents like Canada, Sweden, and the Cze…
Haaland and Ødegaard consulted before major national team decision
- Fredrik Aursnes consulted with Erling Braut Haaland and Martin Ødegaard before deciding to return to the Norwegian national football team. - Aursnes, who previously withdrew from the national team i…
What if world leaders could follow the example of copepods!
- The article discusses the immense population of copepods, microscopic marine animals averaging 1 millimeter in length. - A new study suggests these creatures possess a form of consciousness, using m…
Arsenal fans embrace trophy focus amid criticism of playing style
- Arsenal's playing style is criticized, but fans are focused on winning trophies, as evidenced by their recent Premier League victory. - The article notes that despite external criticism, the atmosph…
Judge Orders Trump's Name Removed from Kennedy Center
- A Washington judge has ordered that Donald Trump's name be removed from the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. - The ruling states the building's name cannot change without congressional approv…
Arbeiderpartiet's leaders escape too lightly: The novel about Leo Trotsky in Norway downplays dramatic events
- A new novel about Leon Trotsky's time in Norway in 1936 downplays dramatic events, focusing instead on his days in the archipelago. - Trotsky, who fled the Soviet Union in 1929 after falling out wit…
Brann suffers third straight loss, facing criticism
- Norwegian football club Brann lost their third consecutive match in the Eliteserien, falling 1-2 at home to Sarpsborg 08. - The team's performance has led to criticism, with one pundit calling it
Children's Cancer Association raises 25 million kroner from Football Jersey Friday
- The Norwegian Children's Cancer Association raised 25 million kroner through "Football Jersey Friday." - The initiative saw widespread participation across the country, with many wearing football je…
Journalist Reveals Serious Diagnosis After Viewers' Curiosity
- A journalist initially planned to withhold information about a serious diagnosis. - TV viewers' curiosity prompted the journalist to reconsider and reveal the diagnosis. - The article hints at a dra…
No, children don't have to give TikTok their national ID number
- A Norwegian official argues that children are not forced to share personal data like ID numbers with social media platforms to prove their age. - He clarifies that services like BankID can be implem…
Oslo Councilor Investigates Potential Systematic Overcharging in Garbage Collection
- Oslo's environmental and transport councilor, Marit Vea, is investigating potential systematic overcharging of residents for garbage collection. - The issue came to light in the fall of 2025 when th…
Norwegian passport holder denied US entry for World Cup, suspects birthplace is reason
- Sarmed Saify, a Rosenborg player developer who fled Iraq as a child and has been a Norwegian citizen for nearly 20 years, was denied an ESTA to travel to the USA for the World Cup. - Saify believes …
SpaceX's 'crazy' IPO plans target AI, moon economy, astrophysicist says
- SpaceX's extensive IPO prospectus reveals "crazy" ambitions, including AI, robotics, lunar missions, and energy production, according to an astrophysicist. - The company aims to raise $75 billion wi…
Blue Origin Rocket Explodes on Launchpad During Test
- Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket experienced an anomaly during a test on the launchpad in Florida. - The company confirmed that all personnel are safe and accounted for following the incident, which r…
Messi sets record: To play in his sixth World Cup for Argentina
- Lionel Messi has been included in Argentina's 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup, set to be his sixth appearance in the tournament. - This record-breaking sixth World Cup participation surpasse…
Agreement in Municipal Negotiations – Strike Among 10,000 Employees Averted
- Municipal employees in Norway have reached an agreement, averting a strike that would have affected approximately 10,000 workers. - Negotiations continue for state employees and Oslo municipality w…
Iran fires rockets; claims US aircraft destroyed; Lebanon attacks kill 11
- Iranian media reported that rockets were fired from the south of the country towards unspecified "specific targets." - State television claimed a U.S. aircraft was destroyed in Jam, Bushehr province…
IEA: Energy crisis to reshape global investment strategies
- The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts the current energy crisis will lead countries to increase domestic energy production and alter global investment strategies. - The crisis, exacerbated …
Trump Faces Potential Failure in Iran, But Hope Lingers
- The article questions the potential success of a "Iran war" despite perceived failures, suggesting hope remains. - It references a 2009 quote from Barack Obama about the US guaranteeing global secur…
New Norwegian Research Links Children's Diet to Behavioral Difficulties
- New Norwegian research suggests a link between the diet of four-year-olds and their psychological well-being. - A study from the University of Agder indicates that what children eat may influence th…
Ruud advances at French Open after heat struggles
- Casper Ruud advanced to the third round of the French Open after defeating Hamad Medjedovic in straight sets. - Ruud experienced significant difficulties with the heat in his first-round match but a…
Ukraine seeks new negotiators to 'end the war in one day' promise
- Ukraine seeks new dynamics for peace talks, suggesting a new format and more active European participation. - The call comes amid stalled negotiations and unfulfilled promises by former U.S. Preside…
After 16 years as a teacher, I'm taking a break. Here's what I've learned.
- After 16 years as a teacher in Oslo, Andreas Brekke is taking a break, reflecting on key lessons learned about trust and vulnerability in the classroom. - Brekke emphasizes that teaching is less abo…
Why do we get rid of clothes? Researcher's 'wardrobe study' in Norwegian homes provides clear answers.
- A researcher's study of Norwegian homes has identified clear reasons why people discard clothing. - The study collected 3,556 textile items to understand disposal habits. - The research is part of a…
Norway's Digitalization Chief Urges Reliable AI Adoption Amidst Tech Revolution
- Norway's digitalization director emphasizes the need for reliable adoption of AI by both public and private sectors. - The article discusses the rapid, disruptive nature of AI development and its po…
Man arrested for attempting to steal Kim Friele stone in Bergen; 14 others found
- A man in his 60s was arrested in Bergen, Norway, for attempting to steal a 'Kim Friele stone' from the city's Walk of Fame. - Police found 14 other stones taken from the same location at the suspect…
Rangers player Aasgaard faces criticism over disappointing season ahead of World Cup
- Norwegian-English player Thelo Aasgaard was selected for Norway's World Cup squad despite a disappointing debut season with Rangers. - Scottish journalists criticize Aasgaard's performance, citing u…
UN Security Council condemns attack on UAE nuclear facility
- The UN Security Council condemned an attack on the Barakah nuclear power plant in the UAE, deeming it a violation of international law. - The UAE reported last week that six drones launched from Ira…
Oslo's housing dream buried: Editorial slams city government's failed initiative
- Aftenposten criticizes Oslo's city government for failing to deliver on its ambitious housing goals set in 2019. - The government aimed to create a third housing sector beyond the private market and…
Carlsen Draws After 'Absurd' Game, Faces Armageddon in Norway Chess
- Magnus Carlsen drew his second-round game against Vincent Keymer in the Norway Chess tournament after both players made significant errors. - Chess experts described the game as "absurd" and among t…
'Doping Games' Stock Collapses Amid Investor Concerns
- The stock of Enhanced Group, the company behind the "doping games," has plummeted nearly 40% on the stock market. - Investors like Donald Trump Jr. and Peter Thiel had previously invested in the con…
Private ADHD providers acknowledge conflicts of interest, stress need for public-private collaboration
- Private healthcare providers in Norway acknowledge an inherent conflict of interest in offering ADHD assessments, as highlighted by a physician. - They state that patients seeking private assessment…
Stoltenberg's personal greeting made an impression. But words are not enough.
- A Nordic discussion highlighted concerns about Russia's threats and potential U.S. withdrawal. - Norway was criticized for its EU stance and perceived insufficient financial support for Ukraine. - T…
Norway's hockey fairytale: Swedish media stunned by team's World Championship run
- Norway has reached the quarterfinals of the Ice Hockey World Championship for the first time in 14 years, surprising Sweden and other hockey powerhouses. - Swedish commentators are expressing astoni…
Netanyahu says Israel will 'crush' Hezbollah, escalating attacks in Lebanon
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Israel remains at war with Hezbollah and will intensify attacks in Lebanon. - The announcement follows calls from two Israeli ministers for an escala…
Iran's president orders full internet restoration after 87-day shutdown
- Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered the full restoration of internet access after an 87-day shutdown. - The prolonged internet blackout, the longest in Iran's history, began shortly after…
No solar discount for Bergen
- Solar power is lowering electricity prices in southern Norway during midday but offers little benefit to the Bergen region. - Factors contributing to this include grid limitations, low water levels …
Queen Margrethe readmitted to hospital for hip treatment
- Queen Margrethe of Denmark has been readmitted to Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen for treatment. - X-ray examinations revealed a significant blood clot in her hip region, resulting from a previous fall…
Huge blow for Vålerenga – defeated by a dream goal
- Vålerenga suffered a significant defeat against Start, losing 0-2 in their away match. - Start secured their first win of the season after a winless streak of ten games. - The match featured an earl…
Norwegian Hockey in Ecstasy: 'Everyone' Believes in First VM Quarterfinal in 14 Years
- Norway's ice hockey team is buzzing with optimism after a historic win against Sweden. - Experts and players believe Norway has a strong chance to reach the World Championship quarterfinals for the …
Harald Eia: Children Shouldn't Admire Famous Artist Parents
- Author and media figure Harald Eia reflected on parenting after reading Linn Ullmann's "The Troubled." - Eia expressed relief at not having famous artist parents like Liv Ullmann and Ingmar Bergman.…
Oslo school staff defend secure browser for exams
- 38 staff members at Oslo Cathedral School are responding to a call from Oslo principals regarding digital exams. - They argue that exams are for assessment, not training, and that secure browsers ar…
Politicians' social media use sparks debate on role perception
- A Norwegian politician was criticized for sharing an unslipped video of a violent incident, potentially identifying minors. - Another minister faced backlash for posting a photo of herself in a tank…
"I Hear What You're Saying" Is on Psychologists' Blacklist. So Are Some Other Words.
- Psychologists advise against immediately dismissing negative self-talk from children or friends, such as calling themselves "stupid" or "a failure." - Instead, they recommend starting by understandi…
California chemical tank emergency prompts 40,000 evacuations
- An emergency has been declared in Orange County, California, due to a potential leak or explosion risk from a chemical tank. - Approximately 40,000 residents have been evacuated from the affected ar…
Wanted Ukrainian bank manager arrested in Norway
- A Ukrainian bank manager, internationally wanted since September 2025, was arrested in Kristiansand, Norway, after arriving by ferry. - The 40-year-old man is suspected of systematic financial crime…
Family counseling service disputes 'brainwashing' claims in child custody disputes
- A Norwegian family counseling service pushes back against criticism that it oversimplifies complex child custody disputes by labeling parental alienation as
A Worthy Successor to "Yellowstone" Arrives with "Dutton Ranch"
- A new series, "Dutton Ranch," is set to premiere as a follow-up to the popular show "Yellowstone." - The new series will focus on characters Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler, exploring their relationship…
A Worthy Successor to "Yellowstone" Arrives with "Dutton Ranch"
- A new series, "Dutton Ranch," is set to premiere as a follow-up to the popular show "Yellowstone." - The new series will focus on characters Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler, exploring their relationship…
World Cup-Bound Falchener Scores as Viking Continues Winning Streak
- Henrik Falchener scored a goal in his final match before the World Cup, helping Viking secure their ninth consecutive victory in the Eliteserien. - Viking won their match against Kristiansund, with …
Doping athlete on shock photo: – Looks extreme
- Australian swimmer James Magnussen addressed his dramatic physical transformation, admitting to using performance-enhancing drugs for the upcoming Enhanced Games. - Magnussen, 35, explained the diff…
Iran to control Strait of Hormuz under new US deal, state media claims, contradicting Trump
- Iranian media reports that Iran will control the Strait of Hormuz, citing a clause in a new agreement with the United States. - This contradicts statements by U.S. President Donald Trump, who claime…
Barcelona crushes Lyon 4-0 to win Champions League title
- Barcelona defeated Lyon 4-0 to win the Champions League final for the fourth time in six years. - Ewa Pajor scored two goals, finally securing a Champions League title after losing five previous fin…
Therese Johaug Wins Bjørndalenmila Race
- Former cross-country skier Therese Johaug won the elite women's 10km race at the Bjørndalenmila event. - Johaug finished with a time of 32:43, narrowly beating second-place finisher Aebersold after …
Solbakken's Haaland Plan: Alternative Training for World Cup Peak
- Norway's national football team coach Ståle Solbakken is implementing a special training plan for star player Erling Haaland. - The plan aims to ensure Haaland is in peak condition for the upcoming …
