Sametinget

Sametinget is the Sámi Parliament of Norway, the representative and advisory body for the Sámi people within Norway. It was established to provide a formal mechanism for Sámi self-government and to oversee matters affecting Sámi culture, language, and livelihoods. The Sametinget convenes in Karasjok (Kárášjohka) and, through elections held every four years, Sámi people residing in Norway elect representatives from Sámi electoral districts. The assembly appoints a President and operates through committees and a parliamentary administration. The Sametinget can make proposals and statements to the Norwegian government and can influence policy on issues such as education, language revitalization, culture, and reindeer herding. Its powers are advisory and consultative; it does not have full legislative autonomy, but it negotiates agreements and funds programs related to Sámi rights and welfare.

Historically, the Sametinget was created following Sámi political mobilization in the late 20th century, with the first elections held in 1989. The Parliament is part of a broader Sámi political system that includes similar institutions in Sweden (the Sameting) and Finland (the Sámediggi). The Sametinget's work is complemented by Sámi organizations and cultural institutions, and it collaborates with the Norwegian government through various ministries on topics including language policies, land and resource rights, education, and cultural preservation.