Consultations between indigenous people and government - policy and implementation: the example of Norway and the Sami

Presented by the College of Arts and Social Sciences and the Centre for Aboriginal Economic Policy Research (CAEPR).

The Sami Parliament in Norway (Sámediggi) was established in 1989, and is a cornerstone in Norwegian Sami policy. It is the main partner for carrying out the state's duty to consult, and the principle of indigenous participation in decision-making processes. The seminar will give an introduction to Norwegian Sámi policy and consultation procedures between state authorities in Norway and Sámediggi.

Anne Karin Olli is State Secretary to the Minister of Local Government and Modernisation. She has qualifications and experience in local government politics, administration and community nursing. Anne Karin was previously first deputy member of the Storting (Norwegian Parliament) and held political positions in the local government of Måsøy muncipality, Finnmark County Council and the Conservative Party.

Bjørn Olav Megard is Director General, Ministry of Government Administration, Reform and Church Affairs. He was previously Deputy Director General in the Department of Sami and Minority Affairs. Bjørn has qualifications in social anthropology and public administration. He has experience as an advisor in the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development and a political advisor to the Christian Democrats’ Parliamentary Party Group.