Norway Recognizes Palestine as State, Boosting Peace Prospects

On 22 May 2024 the Norwegian government announced that Norway officially recognises Palestine as a state, a decision announced by Prime Minister Jonas Gard Støre. The move was welcomed by Preses Olav Fykse Tveit of the Church of Norway, who said the recognition “strengthens the Palestinian position in negotiations with Israel and is an important step toward a fair and lasting peace solution.” Norway joins a growing list of countries that have extended formal state status to Palestine, signalling support for Palestinian rights under international law and encouraging renewed two‑state talks.

The announcement also highlighted the need for humanitarian aid and civil‑society building in the Palestinian territories, urging that assistance reach health, infrastructure and basic needs as part of a broader peace effort.