Listhaug calls for asylum seeker center abroad at Gardermoen conference in Norway

The ongoing immigration trends could jeopardize Norway’s capacity to manage its own affairs, according to Sylvi Listhaug, leader of the Progress Party. During a recent autumn conference held at Gardermoen, Listhaug advocated for the establishment of an asylum seeker center abroad, akin to a system in place in the UK— a proposal that her party has been championing since 2009.

Listhaug articulated her vision, stating that the aim is to stem the influx of asylum seekers into Europe and prevent tragic drownings in the Mediterranean Sea. Despite the European Union’s interest in similar measures, she lamented the resistance from other political parties, asserting that the current situation is unsustainable.

Contrarily, Tonje Brenna, the Minister for Labor and Inclusion and Deputy Leader of the Labor Party, expressed dissent, proposing that her party would consider an abroad arrangement only within a collective European framework. She emphasized that it’s overly simplistic to believe Norway can independently shoulder the consequences of global conflicts.

Listhaug further critiqued government spending, highlighting a mismatch in priorities regarding immigration and municipal funding. She raised concerns about the approximately 30 billion NOK spent annually on immigration initiatives while local services, such as schools and elderly care, face cuts. Listhaug argued that some expenditures could be reallocated, particularly criticizing funding for foreign aid and green battery projects.

Brenna countered, suggesting that investments are primarily directed toward integration efforts, which she believes ultimately benefit municipalities. She noted that Norway has tightened immigration policies in response to recent influxes, specifically referencing changes affecting Ukrainian refugees from safer areas.

Despite their differences, Listhaug and Brenna maintained a cordial atmosphere after their discussion, indicating a professional rapport despite their contrasting views on immigration policy.