9 The way forward

As described in this white paper, Norway finds itself in a world of increased conflict and a great deal of uncertainty. The conflicts are also drawing closer to Norway. The international normative and institutional frameworks that we have largely taken for granted, and on which Norwegian security and welfare depend, are under pressure. No one can predict how deep and lasting these changes will be. It is likely that the number of wars and conflicts, as well as the level of geopolitical tension, will remain high. This will be a serious challenge and may lead to increased threats to Norway’s security, way of life, and values.

The need for peaceful international conflict resolution will increase. Despite many more brokers and facilitators on the scene, there is currently a decline in financial investment in peace and conflict resolution globally. There is a demand for Norway’s involvement in conflicts, which we expect to continue. Norway’s engagement in peace in recent decades has contributed to good international positioning. This must be maintained. Access to decision-makers in capitals around the world will be important for Norway in uncertain times. The insight we gain from being close to the parties and countries involved in conflicts is important for our understanding of global and regional developments. In order to be effective supporters of conflict resolution in a changing world, Norway must build on the lessons learned about what works and at the same time further develop its policies and tools in the field.

This will include:

• cooperating with several countries and actors that have different strengths and approaches to conflict resolution, for example working in combination with larger regional and global actors

• safeguarding our impartial profile where possible, but at the same time using Norwegian expertise in conflicts where we are partial, which is important, among other things, in order to contribute to peace and stability in Europe

• not losing focus on conflicts further away, which in various ways have an impact on Norwegian security and other national interests

• continuing to act discreetly, talking to all parties, and seeking to contribute to inclusive peace processes in which the parties have ownership, which provides more sustainable solutions, and which is important at a time when the international focus is often shifting towards short-term stabilisation

• continuing to emphasise the safeguarding of international law and the strengthening of human rights. Norway has a clear interest in a stable global order based on international law. This is something we also gain recognition for in broad groups of countries that have reacted to double standards in various conflicts.

The heightened security policy situation and a more unpredictable Russia require that we must invest more in the security and defence of Norway. This is the reason why all parties in the Storting support the Long-Term Plan for the Defence Sector and why the Government has presented the first national security strategy. Continued clear efforts in peace and conflict diplomacy are necessary in parallel with the strengthening of the security and defence sector. Prioritising this work further will contribute to policy formulations and solutions in a new and unpredictable time in international politics, and also ensure that what has been built up through Norwegian capital in the field is not lost. This is a cost-effective investment. The work for peace and conflict resolution must be seen in the context of security policy and other efforts to safeguard national interests. This requires strengthened cooperation with other ministries and state institutions.

Photo: Helena Mulkerns/Flickr/UN Photo

9.1 Measures

The Government will prioritise:

• maintaining Norway’s key role in international peace and conflict resolution, including systematising learning and skills development, preserving Norwegian strengths and using new tools and working methods in the face of new developments

• ensuring sufficient resources and expertise to promote Norwegian efforts for peace and conflict resolution in line with the high political priority given to the field

• strengthening the interaction between Norway’s security policy efforts and efforts to promote peace and conflict resolution

• emphasising the Norwegian profile, which entails being able to act discreetly, efficiently, flexibly and long-term, in contact with all relevant parties, and with a willingness to take political risks when deemed necessary

• strengthening national coordination and cooperation across ministries and subordinate government agencies and units

• considering an increased local presence in prioritised processes within the current budget

• utilising the opportunities offered by the Oslo Forum as an important arena for networking and dialogue between relevant international mediators and parties in conflict

• targeting the implementation of Security Council Resolution 1325 and National Action Plans on Women, Peace and Security

• helping parties to conflict to incorporate climate and nature into their agenda for dialogue and negotiations

• strengthening cooperation across countries and with new prominent actors in the field of peace and conflict resolution

• collaborating with Norwegian and international organisations working in the field, including the UN, civil society, the private sector, academia, the media, and interest groups

9.2 Financial and administrative consequences

It is assumed that the measures and policies outlined in this white paper will be covered within the current budget.