Government presents white paper on Norway’s peace and conflict resolution efforts

The white paper outlines Norway’s peace and conflict resolution efforts from the 1990s to the present. It provides examples of the role Norway has played in the roughly 40 processes we have been involved in, of our work to engage with both state and non-state actors, of the dilemmas we face, the lessons we draw on, and how we are adjusting our efforts in this time of rapid change. The white paper also includes previously unpublished information on Norway’s participation in several processes, such as with ETA in Spain and in the Balkans.

‘Over the past 35 years, Norway has developed sought-after expertise on peace and conflict resolution. Our efforts in this area are an integral part of Norwegian foreign policy. Through this work, we maintain close contact with key countries, organisations, and actors around the world, and we gain knowledge and insight that can also be valuable in other contexts,’ said Mr Eide.

The white paper demonstrates how we can achieve meaningful results with relatively modest resources. These efforts make a difference, not only when they lead to the conclusion of peace agreements, but also in advancing progress towards peace, by for example reducing levels of violence, facilitating ceasefires, or increasing humanitarian access.

Where and how is Norway engaged?

Since the early 1990s, successive Norwegian governments have been involved in peace and conflict diplomacy. Norway has, both formally and informally, acted as facilitator for major peace agreements in Colombia, Nepal, and Guatemala, as well as for numerous ceasefires and humanitarian agreements around the world.

Norway has also engaged strategically in efforts to address conflicts that directly affect Europe, from the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Afghanistan to Iran, Yemen, Syria, and the Horn of Africa. Russia’s war against Ukraine represents a direct threat both to Ukraine’s sovereignty and to European security. Europe must do everything it can to respond to this threat. This includes drawing on Norway’s broad experience to help Ukraine prepare for peace negotiations.

‘The work to prevent and end wars and help bring about lasting political solutions is demanding. However, the cost of peace diplomacy and dialogue is very small compared to the enormous human and economic costs of war,’ said Mr Eide.

Norway’s approach is based on a willingness to talk to all parties, even when there are fundamental disagreements on key issues. Norway considers it vital to promote the inclusion of women and minorities and to work to achieve solutions that are in line with international law and human rights. Experience shows that this provides better conditions for securing lasting peace. Other hallmarks of Norway’s efforts include discretion, flexibility, and a willingness to take a long-term approach, which requires broad-based political commitment and support from changing governments.

Norway’s peace and conflict resolution efforts are based on cooperation with a wide range of actors. These efforts are often part of an international initiative carried out together with close allies, including the EU, the UK, the US, and key countries in other regions, as well as with the UN and civil society. Norway’s first national security strategy, launched in May this year, states that Norway will continue to be a principled defender of international law and emphasises the importance of working to reduce war and conflict. Our peace and conflict resolution efforts are vital in this context.

‘Norway’s diplomatic efforts to promote peace and conflict resolution are one of the most important contributions we make to building a safer and more stable world. This work is also closely integrated with our broader foreign policy efforts to safeguard our national security and welfare, and to find common solutions to global challenges,’ said Mr Eide.