Against the votes of coalition partner Socialist Left Party (SV), the Norwegian Government has decided to introduce a series of dramatic restrictive measures into the Norwegian asylum system. We strongly ask the Government not to carry out restrictive measures that will break with Norway’s fundamental humanitarian traditions.
Therefore, it is our view that the following principles must still form the basis of Norwegian asylum policies:
1. The UN recommendations must remain the foundation of Norwegian asylum policies. No one must be returned by force to their country of origin in violation of the UN recommendations.
2. Unaccompanied minors without caretakers in their country of origin must be given durable safety in Norway, not false safety for a couple of years before they are returned to an uncertain future in Afghanistan, Somalia, Iraq, and other conflict areas.
3. Spouses, parents, and children who have been separated by war, conflict, or political oppression must still have access to family reunification. A requirement that the family member in Norway must have worked or been under education for at least four years before the family has the possibility of reuniting, is inhumane.