Oslo – May 20, 2024 –
In Oslo, Norway, recent vandalism on the subway system has targeted advertising posters. The posters,promoting the Peace and Justice party,ignited a heated debate about freedom of speech. The incidents occurred on Sunday, affecting multiple lines in the city. the vandalized ads are at the centre of a political firestorm, and more facts is likely ahead.
Oslo Subway Ads Vandalized Amidst Political Controversy
Oslo, Norway – Advertising posters for the Peace and Justice party have been torn down on Oslo’s subway system, sparking debate over freedom of speech and political messaging. The incidents occurred on Sunday night, affecting multiple trains on Line 1, the Frognerseteren line, and at least one other subway line.
the controversy
The posters, which first appeared on May 17, have ignited strong reactions. The core message of the Peace and Justice party’s campaign centers on redirecting funds allocated for Ukrainian support towards domestic welfare programs.
The party’s stance has drawn criticism from various political figures.
- Mathilde Tybring-Gjedde, a member of parliament (Høyre party), accused the Peace and Justice party of disseminating
Russian propaganda
on Facebook. - Hallstein Bjercke (Liberal Party), Oslo Finance Agency, described the party’s message as
garbage
to aftenposten.
Sporveien’s Response
sporveien, the company operating Oslo’s public transportation, has acknowledged the incidents and expressed disappointment.
Tone S. Tuhus, a press contact for Sporveien, confirmed that they were notified of the vandalism.She stated:
During the afternoon and evening, we are made aware that someone has been right and removed posters with political messages hanging up in the subway cars. We are aware that some peopel are critical of the political content of the posters hanging up, but it seems to be sad and needless to destroy this way.
Tone S. tuhus, Sporveien Press Contact
Sporveien is urging passengers to respect the advertising agreements and allow the posters to remain in place.
Tuhus further emphasized Sporveien’s commitment to upholding freedom of speech:
Since there is freedom of speech in Norway and the advertising campaign is approved and in accordance with current guidelines. We have a good dialog with our partner who safeguards the advertising agreements on the subway, tram and bus, and take the reactions to the campaign in further follow-up of the case. Over the weekend, we will consider what measures might potentially be implemented according to today’s events.
Tone S.Tuhus,Sporveien press Contact
Looking Ahead
Sporveien is currently reviewing the situation and considering potential measures to prevent future incidents. The debate surrounding the Peace and Justice party’s message and the limits of political expression in public spaces is expected to continue.
