Norway has launched a sweeping national digitalization strategy for 2024–2030, aiming to establish itself as the world’s foremost digital nation by the end of the decade. The plan, announced by Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Minister of Digitalization and Public Governance Karianne O. Tung, is designed to harness digital transformation for societal benefit. Focusing on areas such as digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and inclusivity, Norway’s strategy seeks to drive both public sector efficiency and private sector innovation while maintaining a focus on sustainability and ethics.
A central pillar of Norway’s digitalization effort is enhancing its digital infrastructure to ensure that all citizens, regardless of location, can access high-speed broadband and stable mobile coverage by 2030. The strategy aims to connect even remote and rural areas, ensuring that digital equity remains at the forefront of the national agenda. To support these ambitious goals, the government has committed to substantial investments in upgrading Norway’s broadband and mobile networks.
As part of its digitalization strategy, the government places significant emphasis on cybersecurity and resilience. In a world of increasing cyber threats, Norway’s strategy prioritizes building a secure digital foundation by enhancing national cybersecurity frameworks and emergency preparedness. Key initiatives include protecting essential national infrastructure, safeguarding critical data, and ensuring robust digital emergency systems. By strengthening its cybersecurity infrastructure, Norway seeks to provide a safe and reliable environment for both citizens and businesses to operate in the digital sphere.
AI and data-driven innovation play pivotal roles in Norway’s digital ambitions. Acknowledging the transformative potential of AI, the government aims to establish a national AI infrastructure to support sectors spanning public administration, healthcare, and commerce. This infrastructure is expected to enable both public and private entities to leverage AI technology, making processes more efficient and effective. Furthermore, Norway aims to implement AI ethically, aligning with European standards such as the EU AI Act to ensure responsible use of the technology.
Aligned with European digital policies, Norway is dedicated to adhering to frameworks like the Digital Markets Act, Digital Services Act, and Data Governance Act. Norway’s strategy acknowledges that digital transformation should not occur in isolation; by harmonizing with EU standards, Norway can facilitate smoother cross-border data flows, strengthen digital market regulations, and enhance cybersecurity practices across Europe. This alignment also ensures that Norway remains competitive within the European digital landscape.
The strategy takes a people-centered approach to digitalization, prioritizing digital inclusion and competence-building across the entire population. Norway’s government aims to ensure that all citizens possess the digital skills necessary for the future. Recognizing the unique digital needs of different groups, the government plans to support educational programs to teach digital literacy to children, adults, and the elderly. Additionally, the strategy emphasizes countering disinformation, safeguarding children and young people in digital spaces, and promoting a secure and trustworthy digital ecosystem.
In promoting sustainability, Norway’s strategy integrates digital tools to address environmental goals, such as reducing carbon emissions and advancing the circular economy. By fostering innovation in green technology, Norway aims to achieve its climate targets in alignment with digital growth. This dual focus on digital and environmental progress exemplifies Norway’s commitment to responsible development.
Prime Minister Støre expressed optimism about the strategy’s potential, emphasizing that the plan reflects Norway’s dedication to a digitally inclusive society that benefits all citizens. By focusing on transparency, ethical standards, and sustainability, Norway’s digitalization strategy not only seeks to transform its domestic landscape but also aims to establish Norway as a global leader in responsible digital development. Through targeted investments, responsible governance, and a focus on public benefit, the strategy sets Norway on a path to become a digital pioneer by 2030.
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