The OSCE criticizes Norway for being intolerant towards Jews and Muslims, and claims that the police do not do enough to prevent hate crime.(Photo: Oslo Synagogue)
A delegation representing the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) spent five days in Oslo this summer to investigate the state of racism, discrimination, integration and tolerance in Norway.
The delegation's report states that they are concerned about Norwegians' view on the conflict between Israel and Palestine, and warns that strong attitudes against Israel may develop into anti-Semitism, Aftenposten reports.
The OSCE also criticizes Norway for not doing enough to identify and fight hate crime.
The delegation aims strong criticism at Norway's ban on halal and kosher meat, which has to be slaughtered according to strict religious customs for both Jews and Muslims.
The ban dates all the way back to 1929, when it was decided that no animals should be slaughtered without the use of anesthetic. However, both hunters and Sami people are exempted, and the OSCE questions why the same exemption cannot apply to Jews and Muslims.
Despite the criticism, the delegation also points out that Norway is an exemplary country when it comes to human rights and equality.
During the five-day visit, OSCE's representatives met with Minister of Children, Equality and Social Inclusion Inga Marte Thorkildsen, and 44 representatives from various organizations, church communities and public agencies.
(Aftenposten/NRK)
Julie Ryland
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