ufravikelig

Ufravikelig is a Norwegian adjective meaning that something cannot be deviated from, cannot be waived, or cannot be suspended. The term is formed from the negating prefix u- and the adjective fravikelig, which derives from fravike, “to depart from” or “to deviate.” It is commonly used in legal, constitutional, and political contexts to describe norms, rules, or rights that are considered non-derogable.

In legal usage, ufravikelig describes principles or rights that remain in force even under exceptional circumstances or emergency measures. It is often encountered in discussions about fundamental rights and constitutional safeguards. In international human rights discourse, the related concept of non-derogable rights denotes rights that cannot be suspended during emergencies, with examples typically including protections against torture and other cruel or inhuman treatment, as well as certain core rights to life and dignity. The exact list of non-derogable rights can vary by treaty and jurisdiction.

In Norway, the term appears in legal commentary and academic writing to underscore that certain standards cannot be overridden by ordinary legislation or temporary measures. While not a formal category in every statute, ufravikelig is a useful descriptive label for describing the most foundational norms that authorities are expected to uphold, even in times of crisis.

See also: non-derogable rights, derogation, emergency measures.