Leserbrev

Leserbrev, a term used in Norwegian media, refers to a letter to the editor written by a reader and published in a newspaper or magazine. It is typically a short opinion piece that responds to a recent article, discusses a public issue, or offers a personal perspective on matters of community interest.

The purpose of a leserbrev is to convey a reader’s viewpoint, critique, support, or experience. It is usually written by an ordinary reader and is not a commissioned piece like an editorial or a debattinnlegg. Leserbrev are generally limited in length, keep a respectful tone, and rely on factual accuracy and verifiable claims when possible.

Submissions are usually sent by email or through an online form. Editors select letters based on relevance to current events, topicality, and length, and may edit for clarity, brevity, or style. Publication is not guaranteed and many outlets require the writer’s real name and location; some may permit pseudonyms, though this varies by publication.

Leserbrev are distinct from longer opinion pieces such as debattinnlegg or op-eds, which are usually written by journalists, scholars, or invited contributors. Leserbrev reflect individual reader responses rather than the editorial stance of the publication, contributing to public dialogue by allowing diverse voices to be heard.

Editorial and legal considerations include avoiding defamation and ensuring accuracy. Publications may issue corrections if necessary. Overall, leserbrev serve as a mechanism for citizen input in democratic discourse and can help surface broad public perspectives on current issues.