Few countries excel in sports quite like Norway.
With a population close to 5.6 million, Norway consistently nurtures world-class athletes in fields such as soccer, athletics, winter sports, cycling, golf, and tennis. This success is largely credited to a unique model that emphasizes widespread participation over early specialization, is supported by continuous public funding, and is underpinned by a political consensus that aims to make sports accessible to every child.
Lubna Jaffery, Norway’s minister of culture and equality—whose responsibilities include sports—belongs to the Labour Party of the governing coalition. She asserts that Norway’s success is not accidental, even in a country among the wealthiest in Europe.
In an interview with POLITICO from Miami’s South Beach, where she recently joined a large gathering of Norwegian fans in the celebrated “Viking Row,” Jaffery elaborated on Norway’s focus on inclusiveness and fun in sports, touched on Russia’s possible return to international sports, and shared her thoughts on the upcoming World Cup quarterfinal against England.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Norway keeps producing world-class athletes across football, athletics, winter sports, cycling, golf, and tennis. What is the secret to this — and is it the result of deliberate public policy?
In Norway, the idea is that young people are encouraged to participate in various sports. Children can engage in multiple activities rather than focusing on just one, and competition is not emphasized at an early age—they mostly play for enjoyment.
For our government and those before it, ensuring that all children who wish to participate in sports can do so affordably has been a priority. This approach allows children from less affluent families to engage in sports, fostering a culture where financial constraints do not limit opportunities.
The playful nature of the Norwegian sports system, which does not focus on competition from a young age, plays a crucial role in the development of successful athletes. Of course, the dedication and hard work of the athletes are also key factors.
Many other countries pursue sporting success by specializing children earlier, spending money, and placing winning as the most important thing. As international competition becomes more intense, do you think Norway can continue this development without compromising its values?
This approach is intrinsic to Norwegian identity. We value a playful introduction to sports from a young age. However, it is also important to teach children about competition, as professionals must learn to handle competitive environments and the emotions involved.
The philosophy is straightforward: involvement in sports is beneficial, fostering friendships and teaching skills that translate into life skills as one grows. Maintaining our current international competitive level requires preserving our model, where inclusiveness and playfulness are central.
Norway was a strong supporter of sanctions against Russia after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The direction of travel at the moment at the IOC and FIFA seems to be toward bringing the Russians back into competition. What do you think about that? Do you think it’s right or wrong?
Norwegian politics, including the sports ministry, has a long-standing tradition of backing the viewpoints of the Norwegian Football Federation and the Norwegian Olympic Committee.
We support their stance, which opposes the return of Russian athletes. However, decisions are made by organizations like the IOC and FIFA, where Norwegian politicians have no direct involvement.
While we cannot override the decisions of the sporting federations, we continue to support the positions of Norway’s national sporting bodies regarding Russia.
OK, last one. Give me a score prediction for Norway against England tonight.
England should win based on their past performance, but I’m rooting for Norway. I won’t give a prediction, but I expect a challenging match and feel optimistic.
