Norwegian MP condemns FpU leader’s transgender toilet remarks

MDG’s Frøya Skjold Sjursæther has strongly criticised Lars Barstad Løvold, leader of the Progress Party’s youth wing, for stating that biology should determine which toilets or changing rooms people use, Dagbladet reports.

“This is clickbait of the worst kind,” Sjursæther told the newspaper, calling the timing—at the start of Pride month—“a despicable attempt to seek attention at the expense of a highly vulnerable group.” She cited statistics showing trans people attempt suicide at eight times the rate of the general population and face higher levels of hate, threats, and violence.

Løvold, in a text message to Dagbladet, said he did not recognise the criticism. “I do not want anyone to experience hate. I want everyone to have the freedom to be themselves and feel included and accepted,” he wrote.

Sjursæther dismissed Løvold’s claim that trans women using women’s toilets is a problem. “It’s a non-existent issue, and not a political question at all,” she said, adding that the remarks fuel a culture of hatred against LGBTQ+ and trans people, similar to trends seen in the US under Trump.

She called on Progress Party leader Sylvi Listhaug to clarify the party’s position on Løvold’s statement, arguing that trans people need politicians who refuse to spread speculation or suspicion.