Michel Forst, the UN expert on environmental defenders, recently shared serious concerns about Norway’s supreme court rulings. These rulings handed down tough sentences to activists protesting environmental issues, including prison time and hefty fines.
Forst, who monitors compliance with the UN’s Aarhus Convention—a framework that protects the rights of individuals engaged in environmental matters—described these sentences as troubling. He argued that such harsh penalties for so-called “aggravated damage” breach the spirit of the convention.
The activists involved were Anne Klenge and Joachim Skahjem, who in November 2022 aimed to draw attention to Norway’s failure to cut carbon emissions and its ongoing oil exploration policies. They painted the iconic Monolith in Oslo’s Vigeland Sculpture Park to make a statement.
Another set of activists, Esther Hjerrild and Fridtjof Klareng Dale, took similar action a year later, painting the exterior of Norway’s climate and environment ministry. All four faced prison sentences of up to 50 days. Additionally, Hjerrild and Klareng Dale received a staggering compensation order of almost 1.2 million kroner (around $120,000), which they were required to pay swiftly.
Forst emphasized that the supreme court’s decisions were even harsher than previous sentences. He pointed out that as a signatory to the Aarhus Convention, Norway has a duty to protect those who peacefully protest for environmental causes. While he acknowledged that laws must be upheld, they should be reasonable and serve a valid public interest.
Instead, he noted that the recent sanctions felt excessively punitive and might pose a significant threat to democracy. He urged Norwegians who care about environmental issues to be alarmed by this trend, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe space for civic engagement and protest.
Recent surveys indicate growing public concern over climate change, with 70% of Norwegians believing strong action is necessary. Activism plays a role in driving discussions about climate policy, yet it seems increasingly risky, as demonstrated by these court rulings.
For more insights into the impact of environmental activism and legal repercussions, check out resources like EarthRights International and their analysis of global trends in environmental protection.
