Youth crime rates decline in Norway, but serious offenses among minors surge

From January to August 2024, youth crime rates have declined compared to the same period last year. However, new figures reveal a notable rise in more serious offenses among those aged 10 to 17. Reports of robbery, violence, and threats surged from 4,011 in the first half of 2023 to 4,429 in the same timeframe in 2024—a rise exceeding 10 percent, with locations like Troms experiencing an unprecedented 55 percent increase. Nationwide, robbery reports involving minors have skyrocketed by nearly 70 percent.

Specifically, in Oslo, there has been a nearly twofold increase in youth robberies, from 125 cases in 2023 to 247 in 2024. This rise marks the highest incidence of youth robberies in seven years. Authorities express concern over the increase in violent behavior, which often involves repeat offenders and disproportionately affects young people’s victims.

A significant portion of the reports also pertains to threats. While increased violence includes physical assaults, most of the uptick is attributed to reported threats. Social issues, including mental health struggles, are believed to contribute to this chaotic environment among youth. Those in the field indicate that much of the violence does not stem from organized crime but arises within disorganized youth groups, resulting in a chaotic culture of violence.

Researchers note that the reasons behind rising youth violence are complex, linking the rise to a previous lack of adult contact during the pandemic, which hindered conflict resolution skills. Calls for stronger political action and community support strategies are emerging to redirect young individuals towards more positive choices. Despite concerning trends in youth offenses, overall crime reports among minors in Norway are seeing a decrease.