Harstad wins 2026 settlement and integration award

Harstad municipality has been awarded the 2026 settlement and integration prize by the Norwegian Directorate of Integration and Diversity (IMDi). The award was presented by IMDi Director Libe Rieber-Mohn during the agency's annual conference in Oslo.

The jury recognized Harstad for its long-term, purposeful work in settling and employing refugees. Key factors in the decision included the municipality's flexibility in meeting settlement needs, its willingness to accommodate refugees regardless of background or family composition, and its specialized model for assisting those with health challenges to achieve rapid employment.

Harstad also focuses on inclusive leisure activities for children and takes proactive responsibility for recruitment within its own organization to promote diversity. Other nominees for the prestigious award included Hustadvika, Vestre Aker in Oslo, Oppdal, and Vang.