How to promote public health and living conditions in Sámi areas?

In addition to having hosted meetings in various locations around the country to collect input orally, the government also asked for written submissions from the public. (The written submissions are only available in the Norwegian language version of this article.)

In March 2023, the government presented a white paper on public health entitled National strategy to reduce social inequities (in Norwegian). In the latest white paper on public health, the government points to societal measures to promote health and reduce social inequities. 

The white paper from March 2023 is the thematic framework for the upcoming white paper on public health and living conditions in Sámi areas. The government invited feedback on challenges, resources and measures of a preventative and health promoting character.

When asking for written submissions, the government sought input on: 

• What particular challenges related to public health and living conditions exist in Sámi areas?
• Which positive resources in Sámi culture and society can be strengthened in a way that improves health and wellbeing?
• How well suited is the general public health policy to promote health in the Sámi population, and what adaptations are needed?
• What can the government do to promote public health and living conditions in Sámi areas?

The deadline for submissions was October 15, 2023. The white paper will be published in the spring of 2024.