New measures to combat terrorism and organized crime

The Government proposes several amendments to protect society and strengthen the individual's safety. The aim is to criminalize preparation of terrorism, to receive terrorist training, and to participate in terrorist organizations.

– We will strengthen our terror legislation to enable the police to prevent and combat solo terrorism, says the Minister of Justice and Public Security, Mrs. Grete Faremo.

The Government is proposing a ban on preparing terrorist acts. This provision also applies to preparations done alone, so-called solo terrorism.

– Today's threat picture shows that terrorism can be carried out in many different ways. Our proposal takes this into account by framing all kinds of preparations for terror. What is crucial is how far the offender has prepared terror, not which objects are used, says Faremo.

Terrorist training

Anyone who receives instructions in methods and techniques to carry out terrorist acts, shall be punished. Today this only applies to those who provide such training.

– This will affect participation in terrorist training camps. The proposal also includes legal training, such as hunting proficiency test course, if it can be proved that the participant has decided to use the skills in terror, says Faremo.

Active participation in terrorist organizations

The Government proposes to criminalize participation in terrorist organizations.

– Terrorism is a global threat to democracy and peaceful coexistence. Norwegian legislation must reflect this, says Faremo.

Beyond the Taliban and Al-Qaeda, it is up to the Norwegian courts to determine which organizations are terrorist organizations. It is not a crime just to be a member of a terrorist organization. It is essential that participation is active.

In addition, the proposal also includes these amendments:

• Enhanced criminal penalties for dealing with weapons and explosives
• Enhanced criminal penalties for organized crime
• 30-year sentences for serious acts of terrorism
• New rules for dealing with security matters

Read the proposal here (Norwegian only)