Hate speech and cyberhate
Article | Last updated: 29/11/2022 | Ministry of Culture and Equality
No one should be subjected to violence, hate or trolling on the basis of their faith, skin colour, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression etc. Hate speech and cyberhate can have serious consequences for individuals, groups and society as a whole.
Freedom of speech is an inalienable value, and one that is well established in Norway. However, speech that spreads hatred towards other people must not be tolerated. Some speech is prohibited under Norwegian law and is subject to prosecution.
Children and young people experience cyberhate and hate speech far more often than adults. Young people have the right to grow up with a safe online environment where they can express themselves. The Norwegian Media Authority provides teaching and discussion resources related to cyberhate, online behaviour and democracy for pupils in Year 5 of primary school and upwards.
The Government will increase its efforts to combat cyberhate and is following up on the initiatives implemented through the Strategy to combat hate speech (2016–2020).