Norway: Disputes arise over snow crab quotas and media coverage of diplomatic contacts

Mikal Solahug, skipper and owner of the vessel ‘Kildin’, has released a statement regarding the ongoing debate over snow crab quota allocations in Norway. Solahug argues that essential facts regarding his vessel’s history were omitted from previous reporting. He clarifies that unlike some other vessels receiving new permits, ‘Kildin’ had significant documented catch and participation in the fishery prior to the 2022 closure.

Solahug notes that the instructions for reallocating licenses were changed after the application deadline, removing requirements for documented catch and activity. He asserts that this change was not initiated by the Ministry but was driven by input from industry organizations and a law firm.

Separately, a critique of Norwegian media coverage has emerged regarding the government’s handling of past diplomatic contacts. The debate centers on the 2021 meeting between Noref and Hamas and the subsequent political response from the Norwegian government regarding the classification of Hamas as a terrorist organization.