Mari Boine to receive lifetime state honorary salary

The Norwegian government has proposed granting Sami musician Mari Boine a lifetime state honorary salary of 200,000 NOK per year, tax-free, starting in 2027. The proposal was included in the 2027 state budget announcement.

Culture and Equality Minister Lubna Jaffery described Boine as ‘one of our greatest artists,’ noting her long career and her role as a vital voice and role model for the Sami people and indigenous groups globally. Boine, who has modernized Sami music and joik, expressed deep gratitude, stating the recognition is a great honor and will provide her with greater freedom.

Since the scheme's inception in 1963, only four other individuals have received this honor. The budget proposal also includes a 3.3 percent increase in funding for the Sami Parliament (Sametinget) to 807 million NOK, which falls short of the institution's demand for an additional 767.5 million NOK.