Activists Occupy Ministry of Industry Demanding Halt to Mining Operations
Oslo, Norway – Activists are currently occupying the office of business Minister Cecilie Myrseth (Ap) in Oslo, protesting ongoing mining projects and demanding a meeting with the Minister. The presentation follows a recent judgment invalidating an emission permit for operations in Førdefjorden, bolstering activists’ hopes for similar rulings against controversial mining endeavors.
The activists, representing groups including nature and Youth, are specifically targeting permits related to mining operations in Nussir, Hammerfest, and Førdefjorden. They argue the permits are fundamentally flawed, mirroring the issues that led to the Førdefjorden permit being deemed invalid. Ella Marie Hætta, an activist who previously chained herself to the entrance of the Nussir mine this summer, is among those participating in the Oslo occupation.A fine of at least NOK 37,000 has been issued to an activist involved in the protests.
The occupation is a direct response to perceived inaction from the Ministry regarding their concerns.The activists state they will remain at the Ministry until they receive a response and their demands are addressed. Hilde M gaebpie Danielsen, a Member of parliament for Sør Trøndelag SV, has voiced her full support for the activists, praising their initiative.nature and Youth has announced plans to hold a demonstration outside the ministry at 4:00 PM today.The core of the dispute centers on environmental concerns surrounding mining waste and potential pollution of fjords. The activists believe the current permitting process fails to adequately protect Norway’s natural resources and prioritize short-term economic gains over long-term environmental sustainability. The outcome of this occupation could set a precedent for future environmental protests and influence the government’s approach to mining regulations.
Published: 02.09.2025, kl. 08.14
Updated: 02.09.2025, kl. 09.31
