Norway

[NO] Norwegian Culture Act: One Step Closer

IRIS 2007-6:1/27

Thomas Rieber-Mohn

University of Oslo

In a recent White Paper, the Norwegian Government upheld its proposal for a new Culture Act (see IRIS 2007-1:14). During the extensive round of hearings, the Green Paper proposal received massive support and with regard to all essential points has been upheld in the White Paper. Some structural amendments are introduced in order to make clear that obligations to establish predictable conditions for cultural development, promote professionalism and quality, and ensure availability of relevant information rest equally upon the State, the County Municipality and the Municipality. The Green Paper proposal to introduce constitutional protection of cultural matters also received massive support during the hearings. With regard to this, as announced in the White Paper, further investigation is to be initiated shortly.