Fylkesmannen

Fylkesmannen, or the County Governor, is the government’s representative in each of Norway’s counties. The office serves as the link between the central authorities and the county’s municipal administrations, and it acts as the highest administrative authority of the state within the county. The County Governor is appointed by the King in Council on the government’s recommendation and heads the County Governor’s Office in the county.

The primary responsibilities of the Fylkesmannen include supervising municipalities to ensure that laws and regulations are applied correctly. The office can issue orders or decisions to local authorities when legal requirements are not met. Its remit covers a broad range of public administration, including oversight of public services, social welfare considerations, environmental protection, cultural heritage, and civil protection. The County Governor also handles appeals against municipal and county decisions and coordinates emergency preparedness and disaster response with state agencies and local authorities. In addition, the office represents the central government in the county on various administrative matters and coordinates related tasks with national ministries.

Historically, the position has its roots in the Danish-Norwegian administrative system and was known as amtmann until the name change to fylkesmann in 1919. Across the country, fylkesmann offices function as part of the national administration, ensuring consistent application of laws, equitable access to public services, and alignment between national policy and local needs. The office operates independently of local political processes while maintaining close collaboration with county and municipal authorities.