Norwegian Government announced plans to introduce a new consent law before Easter. The proposed legislation emphasizes that sexual activity must involve clear consent from both parties, reinforcing efforts to enhance legal protection against sexual violence.
“Everyone in Norway should feel safe,” stated Justice Minister Astri Aas-Hansen (Labour Party).
“We recognize that when it comes to sexual violence, it is crucial to improve the legal framework here in Norway.”
Proposed legislation must reach Storting by April
For the consent law to be reviewed by the Norwegian Parliament (Stortinget) before the summer recess, the Government needs to submit the proposal by the end of April. Concerns had been previously raised about whether the government would meet this deadline.
The specific details of the bill remain undisclosed. However, according to the Hurdal Platform (Hurdalsplattformen), the governing Labour Party aims to clearly reflect that sexual activity without consent constitutes rape and is prohibited.
Debate surrounding new consent law
The introduction of a consent law has sparked significant debate across Norway. Defense attorney Mette Yvonne Larsen has openly criticized the idea, suggesting that such legislation may create new evidentiary challenges and threaten legal certainty.
“I don’t think criminal acts or penalties should depend on verbal confirmation,” Larsen argued. “We currently have a consent law in place, and if someone explicitly says no, and it can be documented, it is already punishable.”
The ongoing debate highlights the complexity of implementing consent-based legislation effectively, balancing improved protection for victims against the practical implications for the legal system.
Norway’s approach to consent law aligns with similar legislative initiatives in other Nordic countries, including Sweden and Denmark, which have already enacted affirmative consent laws.
