Excellencies, distinguished guests, friends of Norway – welcome, and thank you for being here today to celebrate with us.
Today we celebrate the Norwegian Constitution — our freedom, our democracy, and the sovereign power of the people in a society governed by law, not force. Adopted on 17 May 1814, it is the world’s second oldest written constitution, still in use. From the beginning, it was based on the principles of popular sovereignty, separation of powers, and what we later came to know as human rights.
This year also marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War. We honor those who gave their lives resisting fascism and brutality. But we also honor the survivors — those who understood that the expression “Never again” carried responsibility, and that international cooperation would be essential to preserve peace. The UN was founded to save future generations from the scourge of war. And when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted, the international community vowed to never again allow atrocities and genocides to happen.
And yet, today, the very foundation of this progress is under pressure.
Democracy is being challenged. Human rights are being violated. Military and economic power is again and again being used to override international rules. Peace — that precious and fragile peace — is being pushed further out of reach.
It is now, more important than ever, to honor the work of our predecessors and remember that freedom is not something we are given. It is something that is won, and it is something we must safeguard. Peace is not passive. It is something we create through courage, cooperation, and determination.
For 80 years, the world has built a rules-based international order, brick by brick. We’ve strengthened human rights, widened democratic freedoms, reduced poverty, and tackled disease and inequality — together. Now, we must protect what we’ve built. We must remind ourselves: What are we defending? What are we fighting for — today, and for future generations?
Friends,
A constitution is more than a historic document. It is a living expression of who we are and what we value. It evolves with society and must never be taken for granted. In 2014, on the Constitution’s 200th anniversary, the Norwegian Parliament added a separate human rights chapter to our constitution. This was done to strengthen existing constitutionally protected rights. The new chapter also reinforces children’s rights.
Which brings me to my final point: In Norway, we celebrate the 17 May as our Children’s Day. Our streets fill with the joyful noise of children marching with flags— something we deeply treasure.
Shortly, we will have our own parade here, in the garden. I hope you’ll join us.
Dear friends and colleagues,
Let today remind us to keep defending peace, human rights, and democracy in our own countries, and in our joint work around the world.
Gratulerer med dagen. Happy Constitution Day to you all.