The Prime Minister and Minister of Children, Equality and Social Inclusion Minister Solveig Horne unveiled the government’s policy statement against hate speech.

– In a democracy, freedom of speech is inalienable. In Norway, we will defend free speech. At the same time the individual’s right not to be subjected to offensive and hurtful speech should be protected, says Prime Minister Erna Solberg.

Solberg notes that hate speech which limits the individual’s participation in the public sphere is a loss for the public debate and for democracy. With this political declaration, we undertake efforts to combat expressions that spread hatred, says she.

– I encourage as many as possible to join the political declaration and sign it online. We have seen that the price for participating in the public debate is high for many. We must have a debate climate where everyone can participate, without being afraid of being harassed, says Horne.