Norway's Bomb Shelter Proposal Awaits Parliament's Approval

Norway is proposing the reintroduction of mandatory bomb shelters in new buildings over 1,000 square meters, a policy abandoned in 1998 after the Cold War, as part of a comprehensive preparedness strategy. This decision follows concerns over increased geopolitical tensions with Russia and is inspired by the ongoing war in Ukraine. The government aims to enhance Norway's resilience to not only military threats but also hybrid warfare, cyber attacks, and other crises like pandemics and extreme weather. Currently, Norway has enough shelters for only 45% of its population, lagging behind other Nordic countries. The plan includes increasing the civilian defense force, improving food self-reliance, and coordinating public and private cyber defense efforts. The proposal requires parliamentary approval, as the government is in a minority position.