Norway to establish new ministry

‘We are making this change because there are some policy areas that will require even more of our attention in the years ahead. Growing use of technology and digitalisation are affecting all of us on a daily basis, and also affects society as a whole. These changes offer enormous opportunities but also require knowledge, management and regulation. The minister in this new post will need to work closely with many other members of the Government on this key area,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

Focusing on users

The Minister of Digitalisation and Public Governance will be responsible for driving the development of new technological solutions with a clear focus on the users of these solutions.

‘We need to be successful in using new technology effectively in a wide range of areas, from implementing the green transition that is currently underway to managing the challenges that arise as the population ages. We must ensure we have a society where technology serves the people,’ said Mr Støre.

The Minister of Digitalisation and Public Governance will also be responsible for government personnel and employment policy, running and developing the offices of the country governors, and construction of the new government offices. Ms Tung will also be responsible for the Government’s initiative to improve public services and maintain trust in the public sector.

Efficient state sector

‘The state sector needs to be more efficient. The new minister will work to ensure good political governance of society’s resources and institutions and to improve the public sector,’ said Mr Støre.

For practical reasons, the new ministry will officially be in place from 1 January 2024. Until then, the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development will have two ministers: Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Erling Sande and Minister of Digitalisation and Public Governance Karianne Oldernes Tung.

The Ministry of Digitalisation and Public Governance will include three departments and some 130 employees currently from the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development.

The Minister of Local Government and Regional Development will retain responsibility for the rest of the current portfolio, including municipal finances and local government administration, elections, policy relating to the Sami people and national minorities, and rural and regional policy.

Ministry of Energy

In addition, the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy will change name to the Ministry of Energy from 1 January 2024.

‘A growing proportion of our energy comes from new sources such as wind, sun and water. We are in the midst of the green transition and we will continue to expand renewable energy production in the years ahead. The name of the ministry responsible for energy policy should not therefore highlight any particular energy source. However, the ministry will continue to have exactly the same areas of responsibility after the name change,’ said Mr Støre.

When the ministry changes name, the minister’s title will also change from Minister of Petroleum and Energy to Minister of Energy.

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Updated 24.10.23: The name of the new ministry and the new mininster title is updated.