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Segregation, Norwegian Style. Government Wants to Fight Exclusion and Divisions
Norway is increasingly experiencing problems that have been noticeable for years in other Nordic countries. Fot. Halfpoint, za: IMDi
The Norwegian government has announced the introduction of a national segregation monitor. The tool will measure phenomena related to living conditions and social divisions in selected areas of the country.
In some Norwegian cities and districts, social and economic problems are accumulating. These areas have a high percentage of residents with migration backgrounds. Income, social, and spatial differences overlap. The government wants to systematically track these processes over time.
Segregation and Living Conditions Monitor in Norway
In areas affected by social problems, segregation concerns migration background, material situation, and social status. There are also challenges related to crime, including youth crime. The government fears deepening marginalization and exclusion. The new monitor is intended to show the scale and direction of changes.
Minister of Labour and Integration Kjersti Stenseng points to the overrepresentation of immigrants among the unemployed and those living on low incomes. This also applies to residents of areas with difficult living conditions. The monitor is to provide regular data. The goal is to better tailor public actions to actual needs.
Minister of Labour and Integration Kjersti Stenseng points to the overrepresentation of immigrants among the unemployed and those living on low incomes. This also applies to residents of areas with difficult living conditions. The monitor is to provide regular data. The goal is to better tailor public actions to actual needs.
Neighborhoods with a high percentage of migrants are among the areas identified as at risk.Photo: MN
A List of At-Risk Areas Will Appear in Norway
The government has increased funding for area-based initiatives by NOK 68 million since 2021. In the 2026 state budget, nearly NOK 276 million has been allocated for this purpose. The programs aim to improve housing conditions, social environment, and access to services. They are targeted at cities and districts facing the greatest challenges.
Norway has not previously had an indicator system similar to those used in Sweden and Denmark, where annual lists of at-risk areas are published. Recently, the ministry received a report from the Institute for Labour and Social Research (Fafo) on residential segregation in Scandinavia. Studies show an increase in the concentration of similar social groups in Norway.
Norway has not previously had an indicator system similar to those used in Sweden and Denmark, where annual lists of at-risk areas are published. Recently, the ministry received a report from the Institute for Labour and Social Research (Fafo) on residential segregation in Scandinavia. Studies show an increase in the concentration of similar social groups in Norway.
The Directorate of Integration and Diversity (Integrerings- og mangfoldsdirektoratet, IMDi) will begin work on developing a national monitor. The tool is intended to enable long-term observation of changes in cities and districts. The data will serve as a basis for planning public policies. The monitor will be part of a broader approach based on analysis and research.
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