COPENHAGEN, June 19 (Parliament Politics Magazine) – The Norwegian government announced a plan on Friday to prohibit its citizens and companies from engaging in trade involving goods produced in Israeli settlements within the occupied Palestinian territories. Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide stated that the measure aims to prevent Norwegian entities from profiting from activities that sustain these settlements.
The proposed legislation includes a comprehensive ban on the import and export of products originating from Israeli settlements located in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza. Furthermore, the bill outlaws all real estate transactions, including the purchase or sale of property and construction services within these zones. It also prohibits Norwegian entities from acquiring businesses that maintain headquarters or production facilities inside the settlements.
“Norwegian citizens and Norwegian companies must not profit from or support activities that help sustain Israel’s unlawful settlement activity in Palestine,” Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said in a statement.
The draft bill is currently entering a three-month public consultation phase, which is scheduled to conclude on September 19. If enacted, this law would introduce criminal liability for violators, meaning Norwegian business owners or citizens could face fines or potential prison time for non-compliance.
While Norway is not a member of the European Union, this move aligns the country with ongoing international efforts to restrict trade with settlements, which the United Nations has repeatedly deemed illegal. The legislation is widely expected to receive approval when it reaches the Norwegian parliament later this year. This policy initiative follows Norway’s official recognition of Palestinian statehood in May 2024 and further integrates with the nation’s broader divestment strategies.
